Knowledgebase

Remedy? #872912

Asked June 13, 2024, 9:29 AM EDT

Hi I have a huge slope behind a pond where four years ago I planted six Cherokee Princess dogwoods. Four thrived, two died. I replaced, in the same spot, two new dogwoods last summer and they too died. Looking to fill the spots with something else. Guessing a soil test would be wise. Not sure where to do that. I live near Millerton. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks Dolores

Dutchess County New York

Expert Response

That is unfortunate and really odd and I have more questions than answers. Do the challenged plants  get the same amount of water as the successful dogwoods? Are they in the same type of soil? Is the site too sunny or shady? What was there before you planted the dogwoods?

My first thought is that there is water run off in the places that failed. How big is the area that you planted and how far apart were they planted?

I am going on vacation so your answers may get forwarded to another volunteer. A few pictures can always help.

But definitely it’s better to  re-plant in the spring or fall. Hot summer is not a great time for transplanting.




CCE Dutchess County Master Gardener Replied June 16, 2024, 6:20 PM EDT
Thanks for getting back.
I understand you may need to pass this inquiry on.

Your first thought was right, there is water run off from springs. I always 
made a trough for the water. It was always running never stagnant. There
was another tree higher up on the slope with the same condition and it
is thriving. 

About seven years ago the slope was a huge jumble of thorns, butternuts and most 
importantly black walnuts. We removed all of the stumps. And again, everything
else; lo gro sumac, Russian Sage and Rhododendrens are thriving.

I believe I planted the dogwoods about 30 feet apart.

One of the trees that  died was in full sun. But, again the lowest one on the
slope is in full sun. The other four do get a bit of shade as the suns path moves
during the summer. I know they are best planted as an understory. 

I think a soil test might be wise. Wondering where I could have that done.
Since the slope is so large, I am looking for some sort of hardy shrubs that 
could be planted in a drift in front of the lo gro sumac.

If you do get this, have a great vacation and thanks a bunch for your response.
Dolores
PS I will send a photo when I get a chance. I am now planting sunflowers in
the open areas of the slope for my son’s wedding in September.
Sent from my iPad



On Jun 16, 2024, at 6:20 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied June 18, 2024, 10:45 AM EDT

Hi Dolores

You should start with a soil sample and send in some photos when you get the chance. We offer soil test kits here at CCEDC, they include the instructions and bag to send out your sample in. 

By any chance, did you notice any damage being done to them before they died? I planted a beautiful dogwood a couple of years ago (in Pine Plains) and the spongy moths ate all the leaves and since it was a new planting it didn't recover, and died that same year. I'm wondering if the same happened to your newly planted trees. 


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