swamp dogwood

Swamp dogwood should be watered once or twice a week to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water should be applied at the base of the plant, as opposed to overhead watering, to prevent possible mildew and fungal issues. During germination and growth spurts, it may benefit from supplemental watering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Spring and summer watering should be done with care to avoid waterlogging, due to the plant’s sensitivity to overly wet soil. During the fall and winter, restrict watering to only when soil becomes dry.

Swamp dogwood plants typically prefer partial shade environments, with indirect light from the sun for roughly 4 to 6 hours a day. As this species of plant prefers moist soil and air, the ideal level of sunlight should not cause the soil to dry out too much. In the case of this plant, it is best to provide the necessary light in the morning and late afternoon when the temperatures are still low but the light is most intense. Additionally, as this species of plant is native to the eastern United States, it is best to expose it to direct light when the sun is not too harsh due to their tendency to be shade-sensitive.

Swamp dogwood can be pruned at any time of year however they should be pruned in early to mid-spring for optimal growth and health. Pruning should be done as minimally as possible, only removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches and stems. During the spring, remove any crossing, rubbing, or dead branches and stems. Pruning should be done at the desired height and width of the plant and not to remove excess foliage. To maintain dense foliage, remove 1/3 to no more than ½ of the 3-4 year old branches. Follow the general guidelines of pruning: make a clean cut at a slight angle just above an outward facing bud. Make sure to disinfect your pruning shears with isopropyl alcohol before and after pruning to help prevent any spread of diseases.