Red Twig Dogwoods: Year-Round Color with Easy Care
Red twig dogwoods, shrubs from the Cornus genus, add vibrant color to gardens year-round. Two popular species are Cornus sanguinea (Red Dogwood) and Cornus alba (Tatarian Dogwood).
These shrubs grow up to 8 feet (2 m) tall and wide, ideal for planting in groups or as hedges. They produce creamy white flowers in spring and green berries that ripen to white by summer's end. However, it's their stems that truly shine. In autumn, they turn a striking bright red, providing a bold contrast to the dark foliage. To maintain these brilliant colors, annual pruning is crucial. Remove about a third of the old stems and any weak or poorly growing ones at ground level each year. Water weekly for the first couple of months after planting, then reduce watering once established. Feed them annually with compost or slow-release fertilizer to keep them healthy. Growing red twig dogwoods adds spectacular color to the winter garden, making them a fantastic choice for year-round interest.
Red twig dogwoods, with their vibrant red stems and creamy white flowers, are excellent choices for adding color and structure to gardens. With proper care, including annual pruning and feeding, these shrubs can provide stunning winter color and make a significant impact in any landscape.
