Dogwood leaves wilting ???

Question

I have two dogwood trees on my property. One is doing fine and the other has wilting leaves. I don't know why this is happening. I do know that the injured dogwood got struct by lightning a few years ago. I am new to gardening so any help is appreciated. Thanks....

Answer 1

There's a good chance that the lightning strike caused it. The tree may look fine on the outside but have internal damage that is preventing water from getting to the leaves. It can take years for trees to show damage from being struck.

It's also possible it's getting too much water. Leaves can roll up from stress when it first gets hot and dry. If you respond by overwatering, that could be the problem.

The most common explanation would probably be too little water. It may be in an area with less favorable soil that the tree that's doing well. Pockets of clay may be preventing the tree from getting enough water. Watering spikes can help get water to the trees roots.

Edit: I love the name by the way.

Answer 2

I had trouble with dogwoods. They don't like my relaxed mode of maintenance.

When planting, back-fill with soil derived by the removed soil. Supplement with fine bark, lime, fertilizer, and epsom salts [a bug killer]. Also water generously the first year. I use a root ball cover made from indoor-outdoor carpeting. It helps avoid bark damage from weed whackers. I cut it in the form of an octagon, then fix it in place with 16p nails.