Cherokee Chief Dogwood Tree

Cherokee Chief Dogwood is one of the best flowering dogwoods with one of the most popular red flowered cultivars. The dogwood provides red color throughout all four seasons and produces winter berries. They generally perform best in partial shade and are known to be cold hardy. This particular variety (Cornus florida Cherokee) perform their best in USDA growing zones 5-9. Cherokee Chief Dogwood are moderate growers maturing to a height of 15-30 feet and width of 15-30 feet.

Location: When planting Cherokee Chief Dogwood find a site that offers partial shade. Trees planted in full sun or deep shade will not bloom as well as those planted in partial shade. Plant in northern or eastern exposure to protect from the harsh afternoon sun.

Planting Instructions: Select a site that is well-draining and slightly acidic for the Cherokee Chief Dogwood.

1)Dig your hole three times the width of the size of the root ball and slightly deeper.
2) Loosen the soil, in and around the hole so the roots can easily break through.
3) Use your fingers to separate the roots of your Cherokee Chief Dogwood and gently position downward in the hole. Hold the tree straight as you begin to backfill the site.
4) Apply water to settle the soil and remove any air pockets that may have formed.

Mulching: Protect the roots in the cold of winter by applying a thick layer of pine needles, bark or wood mulch. To avoid fungus and rot, keep the mulch about 2 inches from the trunk. Mulching will also help with keeping the soil moist as well as deter weeds and grasses from growing.

Watering: Water newly planted Cherokee Chief Dogwood once or twice a week during the summer and fall. Watering during the winter is rarely necessary. When you water, give it a good, deep soaking to ensure it penetrates down to the deepest roots.

Fertilizing: Little or no fertilizer is needed during the first growing season. Too much fertilizer when the tree is young can stunt root growth and possible injury the tree. You can fertilize established trees twice a year, in February and again in mid-June.

Pruning: Dogwoods don’t really need much pruning. Remove dead and injured branches. Proper pruning will make the trees more attractive and keep them healthier.