Troubleshooting Dogwood, Astilbe, and Hosta Problems in a Rock Garden

Multiple issues: dogwood (planted 2003, bloomed once, never since), astilbe (planted last summer, not emerged), hostas (sun-fried, slug-ridden).

Dogwood

Likely stunted by the historic drought 4–5 years ago. Deep soak + tree fertilizer spikes for bloomers. Slow to recover.

In deep shade, slow to emerge—especially north of Zone 6. Scratch mulch/soil; look for tiny shoots. Roots establish slowly.

Move to shadier spots. Variegated and blue types tolerate sun better. 12–3 PM sun is the killer.

Address each with patience and targeted care.

Perennials: Reviving a Stressed Korean Dogwood 'Milky Way' in the Pacific Northwest; New Flowering Dogwood Wilting: Transplant Shock Recovery; Stabilizing a Newly Planted, Shaky Dogwood; Kousa Dogwood Transplant Shock Recovery; Failing Kousa Dogwood: When to Return It; Dividing Hostas in Full Leaf Successfully; Mulching Hostas for Weed Control: Timing and Technique; Starting Hostas from Bare Roots: Patience Pays Off; Calla Lily Dormancy: Is It Dead or Just Sleeping?; Sweet Broom (Genista) Sudden Death in Sacramento: Genista Caterpillar or Root Rot?

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