Flowering Dogwood Growth Rate - Bustling Nest

Flowering dogwood trees are popular decorative trees among homeowners because of their small stature and year-round attractiveness. They are also easy to maintain once you understand how they grow.

In this article, we’ll look at the flowering dogwood tree’s growth rate and methods for boosting its growth potential.

How Fast Do They Grow?

Flowering dogwoods don’t grow very fast; they usually only grow 1 – 2 feet every year.

Mature Size

When allowed to grow in the wild, such as in a forest setting, flowering dogwood trees can reach a height of 40 feet. However, when grown in full sunlight at a home, the same tree may only grow to 15 – 20 feet and its spread may be greater than its height once it matures.

Where Do They Grow Best?

Most dogwood trees grow best in chilly to mild temperatures. They have an outstanding resilience to cold temperatures and winter precipitation.

Flowering dogwoods flourish when planted in moist, well-drained, and acidic soil (pH level 5.5 – 6.0). For best results, add organic compost to the soil before planting. Add mulch around the tree to help it retain moisture and protect it from lawn mowers and trimmers.

How Much Sun Do They Need?

Flowering dogwood trees can survive in direct sunshine but have more robust blooms when planted in partial shade. Ideally, select a location in your yard that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade.

Tips to Optimize Growth Speed

Flowering dogwood trees are one of our favorite blooming trees because of their pink and white flowers. Use the following tips to help your flowering dogwood tree grow quicker.

1. Plant Appropriately

Although flowering dogwoods can grow in a variety of soil types, they prefer wet, organically-rich soil that drains well.

2. Water Appropriately

Water determines whether dogwood trees thrive or die, especially during their first two growing seasons. Water them well once or twice a week if there’s no rain in the forecast. Be careful not to oversaturate the ground; doing so could cause root rot.

3. Space the Trees Correctly

Spacing flowering dogwood trees 6 – 20 feet from one another will give them plenty of room to grow as they mature. Smaller varieties can be planted in closer proximity to one another.

4. Cover with Mulch

Most of the tree’s roots are buried in the first foot of soil. The roots can also spread out many feet from the tree’s trunk. Add mulch at the base of the trunk to maintain a consistent moisture level in the soil. Mulch will also help protect the roots from extreme heat and cold.