How to Prune Kousa Dogwood Trees
Kousa dogwood is a species of flowering tree native to Japan and Korea and is a relation of other Cornus species native to North America. They are prized for their large bracts in spring, decorative red berries in summer and their richly colored fall foliage. They do not require regular pruning, except to remove occasional damaged or dead wood. If they require pruning, it should be conducted immediately following bloom in the late spring or early summer, according to Purdue University. Kousa dogwoods produce their flowers on year-old wood.
Cut out any dead, cracked, abrading or otherwise damaged branches. Place the cut back to a point of healthy wood or back down to the parent branch from which the problem branch originates. Place all cuts on the bias just 1/4 inch above a leaf node or bud or just outside of the slightly swollen branch collar where two branches meet.
- Kousa dogwood is a species of flowering tree native to Japan and Korea and is a relation of other Cornus species native to North America.
- Place all cuts on the bias just 1/4 inch above a leaf node or bud or just outside of the slightly swollen branch collar where two branches meet.
Thin the interior of the canopy if needed to increase sunlight penetration and fresh air flow. Prune away branches that grow inward toward the trunk and those that cross or abrade one another. Spread the thinning cuts throughout the canopy evenly to preserve a balanced shape.
Reduce the length of the branches only when needed to improve access around the tree, such as when it overhangs a walkway or is brushing up against another tree canopy or structure. Remove just the branch length necessary and place the cuts 1/4 inch above a leaf node or bud.
Prune Kousa Dogwood Trees
Small and late-flowering kousa dogwoods (Cornus kousa) are slow growers, but the results they produce are worth your efforts to grow them. Their tiny, star-shaped blossoms come later than other dogwoods. They are a delicate vision at twilight in late spring. Prune when the kousa dogwood is dormant, in late fall or early winter. Think of the kousa dogwood in thirds. Snip off branches on the lower third of the remaining trunk with pruning shears and the tree will grow taller, faster. Allow the kousa to grow for the rest of the year without any further pruning except for deadwood or storm damage as it occurs. Initially, kousa branches will grow vertically, but strong lateral growth will develop as the tree matures, giving a beautiful, broad reach without any further assistance. Cut branch refuse into manageable pieces and place in yard waste bags for disposal or add to your compost heap.
- Thin the interior of the canopy if needed to increase sunlight penetration and fresh air flow.
- Snip off branches on the lower third of the remaining trunk with pruning shears and the tree will grow taller, faster.
