[crosseyedsheep]

I planted a row of red dogwood along the edge of a border. I want to keep it so that it looks something like this each winter. At the moment each plant has about 2 or 3 whips and are about 3 or 4 feet tall, So I'm wondering should I cut it right back now, there are already buds beginning to come out. or should I maybe leave it for the first year?

Edited by moderator to add descriptive title............... see rule 11 http://www.gardenplansireland.com/forum/about27.html
_________________
Xeyedsheep

[GPI]

I would give it at least a year to settle in, it won't be a big job next year to cut it back anyway.

FYI..... the two theories on pruning the red dogwood......

1. Pruning can be carried out in March on Cornus alba, it should be pruned back hard to within a few inches of the base thus creating a plentiful supply of fresh red shoots next season.

2. Pruning can be carried out in March on Cornus alba, One third of its oldest stems should be pruned back hard to within a few inches of the base thus creating a supply of fresh red shoots next season. This avoids leaving a gaping hole in the shrub border for a time.
_________________
If you benefited from irishgardeners.com, please link to us or tell others, so that the site can grow and benefit more gardeners.

Remember, a weed is just a plant in the wrong place.
Garden Consultation & Design in Ireland!

[crosseyedsheep]

That's great, thanks GPI.
_________________
Xeyedsheep