C & G N U R S E RY

Mastering dogwoods

Dogwoods are losing favor with some landscapers because of their reputations for poor transplant survival. However, this tree remains G&G Nursery's No. 1 seller.

"The secret is our location and our good, sandy soils. Plus, we shear our dogwoods pretty heavily the first few years, which most people don't do. It's somewhat controversial, I guess," said co-owner Don Merritt.

Variety selection is important. Several new hybrids produced by Rutgers University are improvements, he said.

"They transplant more like a Cornus kousa than a Cornus florida, but the tradeoff is that they have fewer flowers like a kousa," Merritt said. "I think they're going to be very good for the industry."

For a true C. florida, Merritt recommends growing 'Cherokee Brave,' which is mildew resistant. The Rutgers varieties G&G grows most are 'Stellar Pink,' and the white-flowering 'Constellation' and 'Celestial.'

. © 2001 Branch-Smith Publishing