The Secrets of swamp dogwood: How to plant (Cornus foemina)
Swamp Dogwood Facts
Swamp Dogwood, scientifically known as Cornus foemina, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the southeastern United States. Belonging to the Cornaceae family, it typically grows 10-20 feet tall with a spread of 6-10 feet. This species thrives in moist to wet, slightly acidic to neutral soils and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. Swamp Dogwood blooms in late spring to early summer, producing clusters of white flowers that give way to bluish drupes in late summer, which are attractive to wildlife. It is often found in natural wet areas such as swamps, stream banks, and wet meadows.
How to Plant:
Site Selection: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Swamp Dogwood thrives in wet areas like swamps, stream banks, and wet meadows.
Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter, such as compost, to improve moisture retention. Ensure the soil is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.0).
Planting: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Place the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down to eliminate air pockets.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Maintain consistent moisture, especially during the establishment period.
Maintenance:
Watering: Swamp Dogwood requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid piling mulch against the trunk to prevent rot.
Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove dead or damaged branches. Light shaping can be done after flowering.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if the soil is deficient in nutrients. Otherwise, this tree typically thrives without additional feeding.
Plant Care:
Pest and Disease Control: Swamp Dogwood is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally suffer from leaf spot, powdery mildew, or cankers. Good air circulation and proper watering practices help prevent these issues.
Winter Care: This species is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and generally requires no special winter protection.
Crucial Wetland Species:
Swamp Dogwood plays a crucial role in wetland ecosystems. Its dense growth provides shelter and nesting sites for various bird species. The white flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while the bluish fruits provide food for birds and small mammals. Additionally, the tree helps stabilize soil in wet areas, reducing erosion along stream banks and floodplains.
References
U.S. Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Cornus foemina. USDA Plants Database. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=COAS2.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. (n.d.). Cornus foemina. Native Plant Database. Retrieved from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=COFO.
University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Swamp Dogwood. Retrieved from https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/media/sfylifasufledu/alachua/images/pdf/Landscaping-in-the-Shade-in-Alachua-County.pdf.
