Growing Red Twig Dogwoods: A Guide for Beginners
Red twig dogwoods are beautiful shrubs that add a splash of color to your winter garden. Their stems, which are green in spring and summer, turn a brilliant red when the leaves fall off in autumn. They also produce creamy white flowers in spring and berries that ripen from green to white by the end of summer.
Identifying Red Twig Dogwoods
Don’t confuse red twig dogwood shrubs with other dogwood trees. While both belong to the Cornus genus, red twig dogwoods never grow to become trees. There are two main species of red twig dogwoods: Tatarian dogwood (C. alba) and Redosier dogwood (C. sericea). The two species are very similar in appearance.
Planting Red Twig Dogwoods
Red twig dogwoods are easy to grow and care for. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. When planting, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the shrub in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water deeply after planting.
Caring for Red Twig Dogwoods
Red twig dogwoods require minimal care, but regular pruning is essential to keep their stems colorful. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove about one-third of the oldest stems at ground level each year. Also, cut out any dead, diseased, or damaged stems.
Water your red twig dogwood regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
One common problem with red twig dogwoods is yellow leaves. This can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency. If you notice yellow leaves on your red twig dogwood, check the soil moisture and fertilize if necessary.
Another common problem is pests. Red twig dogwoods can be susceptible to aphids, scale, and spider mites. If you notice any pests on your shrub, treat them with an appropriate insecticide.
Benefits of Red Twig Dogwoods
Red twig dogwoods offer a number of benefits, including:
- They are easy to grow and care for.
- They add a splash of color to your winter garden.
- They attract birds and other wildlife.
- They can be used to create hedges or screens.
Conclusion
Red twig dogwoods are a beautiful and versatile shrub that can add beauty to your garden year-round. With proper care, they will thrive for many years to come.
