kousa dogwood

Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa 'Kristin Lipka's Variegated Weeper') should be watered deeply once a week during the spring and summer. In the early spring, pour enough water near the base of the plant to moisten the entire root system. Ensure the soil is not saturated, as this can cause root rot. During the active period of growth in the summer, water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out. The plant should be watered enough so that a few inches of water penetrates the soil. During cooler months, reduce watering to once every 2 weeks.

Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa 'Kristin Lipka's Variegated Weeper') grows best in full sun to partial shade, with 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Morning sun and afternoon shade generally provide the best balance, since too much midday sun in summer can burn the leaves. In areas where the sun is intense, or during the heat of summer, trees will benefit from light afternoon shade.

Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa 'Kristin Lipka's Variegated Weeper') should be pruned lightly in late winter or early spring, before the buds begin to swell and break dormancy. Prune any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as any that are crossing or rubbing against other branches. As a general rule, try to maintain an open crown while cutting away only as much as necessary. This species is best pruned by thinning out the outer branches to allow light to reach the inner branches. Make sure to prune at a 45° angle, removing 1/4 to 1/3 of the total number of branches and shoot tips. Pruning should not exceed 25% of the total crown size when done in a single year.