Like many other garden plants, the flower dogwood occasionally suffers from powdery mildew. Although this does not look pretty, it can be combated quite well and the plant does not die as a result. The situation is different if your flower dogwood is infested with anthracnose. The American flower dogwood is particularly susceptible to this.
If the flower dogwood is happy with its location, it is less susceptible to pests and diseases
This fungal disease, also known as leaf blight, is practically incurable. If the infestation is low, cut off the diseased shoots close to the trunk or close to the ground. But if the characteristic brown leaf spots appear again, then you have no choice but to completely remove the plant before it dies and maybe infects other plants…
Does the flower dogwood often suffer from pests?
In principle, there is only one pest that causes problems for the flower dogwood, that is the mealybug or mealybug. However, you can easily tackle this with vegetable oil or alcohol. If there is very little infestation and/or a small flower dogwood, simply collect the small animals.
Large plants are more difficult to treat. Spray them with vodka or other strong alcohol, vegetable oil, or a soapy solution. Do the same for a slightly heavier infestation. You should only resort to chemical agents if other agents do not help.
How can I prevent diseases and pests?
Careful location and good care are among the best preventive measures against disease. If your flower dogwood gets enough light and water, then it is also resilient. So-called beneficial insects help against all pests. Make your garden attractive for lacewings, ladybugs and parasitic wasps. (€22.99) They eat a lot of the annoying little animals.
The best preventive measures for the flower dogwood:
- Careful choice of location: sunny to semi-shady
- good care: sufficient watering, good nutrient supply
- Use of beneficial insects: lacewings, ladybugs, parasitic wasps
- Plant hardy, resistant varieties
tips
Respond immediately if you discover a disease or pest infestation on your flowering dogwood. Then the damage remains small and you do not have to use harsh means.