Dogwood

Description

Dogwood is a medium to large deciduous shrub, growing 2–6 metres (7–20 ft) tall. It prefers moderate warmth in sunny places, though it can tolerate shade and in the more southern areas of its distribution area grows in the mountains. Dogwood bark can also be used to make Blue dye while their fruit will make a greenish blue.

If using in as  hedge: All species in a wildlife hedge can be cut back or “Coppiced” without harm. In the 1st year after establishment the hedge can be cut back to stimulate growth of the hedge from the base thereafter cut every 2-3 years. If the weather is unsuitable for planting or receiving the hedging, dig a hole and bury the roots of the bunched plants, they can be held like that till planting. After planting it is advantageous to mulch the hedge with lawn mowing or leaf mould to suppress weeds and can also be done with plastic or carpet cuts and covered with soil.

Dogwood shrubs have a bright yellow stem colour, green foliage, and produces black berries that are edible berries during autumn. They do well in most soil conditions but prefer slightly acidic soils in damp conditions or moist soil.