Overview

Introduce elegance and natural charm to your landscape with these premium Kousa Dogwood bare root seedlings. Each purchase includes five healthy bare root plants, measuring between 12-24 inches in height, ready for planting. The Kousa Dogwood, scientifically known as Cornus kousa, is a highly sought-after small deciduous tree celebrated for its striking ornamental qualities. Often referred to as Chinese Dogwood tree, Korean Dogwood, or Japanese Dogwood plant, this species originates from East Asia and is renowned for its distinctive white to pinkish-white bracts that resemble flowers, followed by unique, berry-like fruits. These young trees are perfect for adding year-round interest, from their showy spring display to attractive fall foliage. They are a fantastic choice for gardeners looking for a beautiful and resilient addition to their outdoor space.

The Kousa Dogwood bare root is an excellent choice for creating a focal point, lining a driveway, or adding to a woodland garden. Its moderate growth rate and manageable size make it suitable for various landscape designs. When properly cared for, these seedlings will mature into magnificent trees that provide shade, beauty, and a habitat for local wildlife. Prepare to enjoy the seasonal transformation of this exquisite tree.

Key Benefits

The Kousa Dogwood bare root offers numerous advantages for any garden, making it a favorite among horticulturists and home gardeners alike. Its unique characteristics contribute significantly to landscape aesthetics and ecological value.

• Stunning Ornamental Value: Known for its prolific display of star-shaped white or pinkish-white bracts in late spring to early summer, which are often mistaken for flowers. These provide a long-lasting and dramatic visual impact in the garden. The tree also offers attractive exfoliating bark and vibrant fall foliage.
• Unique Fruit Production: Following the flowering period, the tree produces distinctive, raspberry-like fruits that mature in late summer. These fruits are not only visually interesting but are also a food source for birds and other wildlife, adding ecological value to your property.
• Disease Resistance: Unlike some other dogwood varieties, Cornus kousa exhibits excellent resistance to common dogwood diseases, such as anthracnose. This makes it a more reliable and lower-maintenance choice for many gardeners, ensuring a healthier and more vigorous tree.
• Hardy and Adaptable: These Cornus kousa seedlings are well-suited for USDA Zones 5-9, demonstrating impressive cold hardiness and adaptability to a range of soil conditions once established. This resilience makes it a suitable choice for a broad geographical area in the United States.
• Attractive Year-Round Interest: From its beautiful spring blooms and unique summer fruits to its rich fall color and interesting winter bark, the Kousa Dogwood bare root provides visual appeal throughout all four seasons, ensuring your garden remains vibrant.
• Pollinator and Wildlife Friendly: The flowers attract pollinators, and the fruits provide a valuable food source for various bird species, contributing to biodiversity in your backyard.

Plant Care & Growing Tips

Caring for your Kousa Dogwood bare root seedlings is essential for their successful establishment and long-term health. While these trees are generally robust, providing the right conditions from the start will ensure vigorous growth. The ideal planting time is in early spring or fall when the tree is dormant. Dig a hole that is wider than the spread of the roots and deep enough so that the root collar (where the roots meet the stem) is at or slightly above ground level. Gently spread the roots out in the hole before backfilling with soil.

Sunlight requirements: Kousa Dogwood thrives in full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to protect the foliage from scorching. Aim for at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and fruit production. Watering schedule and soil moisture preferences: During the first growing season, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply 2-3 times a week, especially during dry spells. Once established, the tree becomes more drought-tolerant but will benefit from supplemental watering during extended dry periods. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal issues.

Soil type and drainage requirements: This ornamental dogwood care guide emphasizes well-draining, acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-6.5) enriched with organic matter. Heavy clay soils should be amended with compost or sand to improve drainage. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot. Temperature range and USDA hardiness zone: Kousa Dogwood is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9. It can tolerate winter temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C) and hot summer temperatures, provided it receives adequate moisture. Fertilization schedule and type: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer formulated for trees and shrubs. Avoid over-fertilizing, especially in the first year. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and to maintain a desirable shape. This also helps with the overall health of your Japanese Dogwood plant.

Size & Details

This offering includes five individual Kousa Dogwood bare root seedlings, each measuring approximately 12-24 inches in height upon receipt. Bare root plants are shipped without soil, allowing for easier transport and a more cost-effective option for establishing new trees. These young trees have a moderate growth rate, typically adding 12-18 inches in height per year, eventually reaching a mature height of 20-30 feet with a similar spread. The ultimate size can be influenced by growing conditions and pruning practices. Expect these Cornus kousa seedlings to begin showing their characteristic blooms and fruits within 3-5 years of planting, with full maturity and robust flowering in 7-10 years.

The bare root form ensures that the plant’s energy is concentrated on root development once planted, leading to a strong foundation. Planting these Chinese Dogwood tree seedlings in their dormant state allows them to acclimate to their new environment before the active growing season begins. With proper care, these young trees will develop into magnificent, multi-seasonal ornamental specimens for your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: How big do these Kousa Dogwood bare root seedlings get? A: These seedlings are 12-24 inches tall when shipped. At maturity, a Kousa Dogwood typically reaches a height of 20-30 feet with a similar spread, depending on growing conditions and environment.
• Q: Is this an indoor or outdoor plant? A: The Kousa Dogwood bare root is an outdoor tree, well-suited for temperate climates. It requires significant space to grow and thrive, and is not suitable for indoor cultivation.
• Q: How much sunlight does a Kousa Dogwood need? A: Kousa Dogwood prefers full sun to partial shade. For optimal flowering and fruit production, aim for at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily, especially morning sun.
• Q: What condition will the bare root seedlings arrive in? A: Your Cornus kousa seedlings will arrive as dormant bare root plants, carefully packaged to maintain their viability. They will not have soil or leaves upon arrival, which is normal for bare root trees.
• Q: When is the best time to plant Kousa Dogwood bare root seedlings? A: The ideal time to plant bare root Kousa Dogwood is in early spring, just as the ground thaws but before the tree breaks dormancy. Fall planting is also an option in areas with mild winters.
• Q: Will it survive winter in my zone? A: Yes, the Kousa Dogwood is hardy and thrives in USDA Zones 5-9. It is well-adapted to cold winter temperatures within this range, making it a reliable choice for many regions.
• Q: Is this plant easy to care for? A: Once established, the ornamental dogwood care is relatively low-maintenance. It is known for its disease resistance and adaptability, making it a good choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.
• Q: What are the common names for Cornus kousa? A: Besides its scientific name, Cornus kousa is commonly known as Kousa Dogwood, Chinese Dogwood tree, Korean Dogwood, and Japanese Dogwood plant.
• Q: What kind of soil is best for Kousa Dogwood? A: Kousa Dogwood prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy, compacted clay soils that retain too much moisture.
• Q: How long does it take for Kousa Dogwood to flower? A: While growth varies, your Kousa Dogwood bare root seedlings typically begin to produce their distinctive flowers (bracts) and fruits within 3-5 years after planting, with more abundant displays as they mature.