Dogwood Leaking Sap After Pruning: Normal Spring Bleeding

A mature dogwood leaks clear, odorless fluid (1–10 drops/minute) from last year’s pruning cuts. This is normal “bleeding” on species like dogwood, birch, maple, elm. It occurs when sap pressure is high in early spring. Bleeding doesn’t harm the tree; it stops when weather warms. Prune bleed‑prone trees in late spring/early summer when leaves are out to minimize flow. No wound treatment needed.