Planting Flowering Dogwoods in Poorly Drained Soil

Zone 8 river-bottom property with poor drainage; past dogwood failures. Seeks ideal location/procedure for pink varieties.

Site Requirements

• Sun or part shade (afternoon shade best in South).
• Deep, rich, well-drained sandy/loam with organic matter.
• Not heavy clay or wet soils—unless raised bed.
• 40-year lifespan on good site.

Planting Technique

• Hole depth = rootball (no deeper).
• Compacted/wet soil: hole 3x width, 2/3 depth. Mound soil to cover rootball sides.
• Never cover rootball with soil.
• Mulch 3-inch circle, 2 ft diameter per inch trunk. Expand as tree grows.
• Pull mulch 1-2" from trunk.
• Water thoroughly after planting.