Hello Gardeners, I’m Amanda McNulty with Clemson Extension and Making It Grow. Dogwoods are not long-lived trees and the ones in my yard are showing their age. One planting goal for this fall is to plant more of those native trees that have high value to wildlife. Dogwoods are monecious so all trees will have the red fruits that are an important part of the winter diet of our overwintering birds.
The red fruits are high in calcium and fat, just what birds and mammals need in winter. The leaves are browsed by rabbits and deer, and the branching structure attracts nesting birds as well. These trees are found in semi-shady sites in nature and are best planted in the same location in your yard. It is worth the extra money to buy new varieties that are both resistant to powdery mildew and have a heavy flowering habit – your dogwood will be healthier and provide more food for wildlife.
