How to Plant Your Dogwood Seedling

Tips for Planting and Maintaining a Healthy Dogwood

Thank you for participating in our community event! Your new dogwood seedling marks the start of something special. Dogwoods are cherished throughout Virginia for their stunning spring blooms and vibrant fall colors. Use these tree planting tips to give your seedling the perfect start, and in just a few years, you’ll have a showstopping tree that brings beauty to every season. 

  • 1

    Choose the Perfect Location 

    • Choose a spot with well-drained soil that doesn’t get too dry
    • Look for soil rich in organic matter
    • Plant in full sun or partial shade – morning sun is ideal
    • Plant your seedling as soon as possible to ensure survival

  • 2

    Plant Your Dogwood 

    • Dig a hole at least 1 foot wider than your seedling’s roots
    • Point roots straight down – avoid bending them upward like a “J”
    • Fill hole with a mix of rich soil and existing soil
    • Add 3-4 inches of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk
    • Mark with a flag or protective sleeve until established
    • You can fertilize at time of planting and first watering, but do NOT fertilize again until the second year 

  • 3

    First-Year Care

    • Water deeply 1-2 times weekly in summer and fall 
    • Watering in winter is typically not needed 
    • Natural rainfall is usually enough after the first growing season 
    • Do NOT prune during the first year 
    • No additional fertilizer needed during the first year 

  • 4

    Long-Term Care

    • Begin fertilizing twice yearly in the second year (February and June) 
    • Start pruning in the second year as needed 
    • Maintain a 1-foot mulch ring using peat moss, bark, or wood chips 
    • Keep the mulched area free of grass and weeds 
    • Water during extended dry periods 

Need Help?

Have questions about caring for your new dogwood? Our ISA Certified Arborists at Riverbend Landscapes & Tree Service are always happy to help!


We're passionate about helping our community grow healthy, beautiful trees. Whether you have questions about watering, pruning, or overall tree health, we're just a phone call away.


Ask us about our Integrated Pest Management Program to keep all your trees and shrubs thriving!

Call Riverbend today at 703-402-9366