When To Trim, Move, And Replant Red Twig Dogwood Shrubs?

Question

I have 3 Red Twig Dogwoods that I planted too close together and too close to my sidewalk.

They're all growing into each other now, and they're taking over the sidewalk!

My question ... is it OK to trim them back right now? Better yet ... would it be OK to move them to another location? I want to move them to a more protected area ... they're on the West corner of my house, and they're getting too much wind. (They're bending, and some of the leaves are shredding).

Can I do this now? Or should I just put up with them as they are for the moment, and wait for cooler weather?

I'm in Northeast Ohio ... Zone 5.

Thanks for your help!

Answer 1

I love dogwoods but haven’t been successful with them, I  tried years ago. They are one of my favorite, maybe I will try again sometime.

I am also in zone five if you move them now in this heat I’m afraid you will lose them. Wait until early fall just before the rains come, about end of September. If you feel you need to trim them it should be ok. But I would wait and do it all the same time.

Good luck

Hope this will help. It is for the tree but same method.

http://www.ehow.com/how_2363351_transpla...

Answer 2

Trim them up and wait for mid-September to move them. The shock of the heat and moving might kill them.

Answer 3

I wouldn't trim anything right now...........they bleed just like you and I.....more or less..........but I have transplanted this time of year........but take a good ball of dirt......and water them....they are going to need water and food like us.......to tough it out till they est. themselves again...........if you have the time....wait till early fall or early spring............if not just put them on a plane and send them to "Chop" in washington st.:)