Question From: a. bonda - Attleboro, Massachusetts, United States
Q: kousa dogwood tree planted 3 years ago as a little sapling as grown to be about 4 to 5 feet tall. was planted in full sun. looks very healthy only it turns pre maturely red in early summer and stays that way till fall. It has not flowered yet but I know it is too young yet to flower. what do you think is the problem? There are no cankers or marks on the tree. I'm stumped.
A: Kousa dogwoods are understory trees meaning in nature they grow at the edge of the forest and are shaded from the hot afternoon sun. Your little tree is suffering from sunscald. While it is still small move it. When you do be sure to keep it well watered for two years running. Do not use fertilizer in the planting hole. Wait for a year and then use Espoma Tree Tone. Also be sure to mulch around the tree with a good organic mulch. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy.
