The Cherokee Brave Dogwood (Cornus florida 'Comco No. 1') is a desirable ornamental tree with rich red flowers that will fade to a white center in the spring season. They’re fairly low maintenance and commonly planted in USDA growing zones 5-9 which means they are fairly cold tolerant. Cherokee Brave Dogwoods are fast growers that require well-draining, acidic soil and adequate moisture. They will mature to a height of 15-30 feet tall and about 25-35 feet wide so be sure there is ample space for the tree to grow. The showy crimson flowers have white centers held at the top of the branches in mid spring and green foliage which emerges burgundy colored in the spring. The leaves will take on an outstanding red color and produce red berries from early to late fall. The Cherokee Brave is a full to partial sun loving, deciduous tree with stunning growth to the horizontally-tiered branches.

Location: When planting a Cherokee Brave, find a site that offers full to partial sun. Plant in northern or eastern exposure to protect from the harsh afternoon sun.

Planting Instructions: Select a site that is well-draining and slightly acidic for the Cherokee Brave Dogwood.

1)Dig your hole three times the width of the size of the root ball and slightly deeper.
2) Loosen the soil, in and around the hole so the roots can easily break through.
3) Use your fingers to separate the roots of your Cherokee Brave Dogwood and gently position downward in the hole. Hold the tree straight as you begin to backfill the site.
4) Apply water to settle the soil and remove any air pockets that may have formed.

Mulching: Protect the roots in the cold of winter by applying a thick layer of pine needles, bark or wood mulch. To avoid fungus and rot, keep the mulch about 2 inches from the trunk. Mulching will also help with keeping the soil moist as well as deter weeds and grasses from growing.

Watering: Water newly planted Cherokee Brave Dogwoods once or twice a week during the summer and fall. Watering during the winter is rarely necessary. When you water, give it a good, deep soaking to ensure it penetrates down to the deepest roots.

Fertilizing: Little or no fertilizer is needed during the first growing season. Too much fertilizer when the tree is young can stunt root growth and possible injury the tree. You can fertilize established trees twice a year, in February and again in mid-June.

Pruning: Dogwoods don’t really need much pruning. Remove dead and injured branches. Proper pruning will make the trees more attractive and keep them healthier.