Whether native, like Pacific dogwood (Cornus nuttallii), or non-native, like Chinese/Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa), these forest-understory trees share a preference for neutral to acidic soil.

Are Kousa dogwoods acid loving?

Kousa dogwood trees will grow well when planted in either full sun or part shade. ... Soil pH should be acidic, around 5.5, but kousa dogwoods can adapt to soils with a more neutral or alkaline pH. For optimum growth, the soil should be rich in organic matter, well fertilized and mulched.

Do dogwoods like acid fertilizer?

Dogwood trees need slightly acidic soil to thrive. ... If the soil is not acidic, you can use an acid lover's fertilizer suitable for such plants as rhododendron and holly. In most regions, a ratio of 12-4-8 or 16-4-8 will be sufficient.