Suddenly flopped over

18 years ago

I have a gray dogwood, planted in 2006, that is about 8' tall. I allowed it 10' of space, as I read that it produces lots of suckers, but it never has. In fact, it's tree-like in form. Maybe the rabbits I see out there get to the suckers before I ever see them.

Anyway, three days ago, it's two biggest branches suddenly flopped over. ( Up until this point,they were upright branches.) At first, I thought it was weighted down by a recent rainstorm, only it's dry now, and the branches are still curved way over. It's always been the picture of health, except that it's never bloomed. (I purchased it as a berry-producing shrub to attract birds.) It's definitely big enough, and it gets plenty of sun. A month ago, I fertilized it with Holly-Tone, like I always do. A week or so ago, when it still didn't have any flower buds, I figured I give it a phosphorus boost, and gave it a good dose of Miracle Grow "Quick Start". (4-12-4) Is that why it's "floppy"? Is it a goner? Is there any thing I can do now? Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

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Comments (4)

Iris GW
18 years ago
I would stake it up. In this situation, a tall stake planted near the trunk and with soft tape (you can buy staking tape at the hardware store) and tie it firmly but loosely in several places to the stake. Leave that in place through the fall and then remove it come spring (or sooner if you want, just don't leave it forever).
kelp
Original Author
18 years ago
Thanks, I'll try that.
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ken_adrian Adrian MI cold Z5
18 years ago
IMHO .. shrubs..... NEVER NEED FERTILIZER .... EVER!!!!!!

maybe it has not flowered because of excess fertilizer [or its not ready due to age] ...

but all fertilizer will do for a shrub is cause excessive vegetative growth that will result in growth faster than structure can support it ...

being a shrub... and if i didnt like the shape it is assuming ... i would properly follow shrub pruning dictates and remove the offending branches ... i am not one to enjoy looking at stakes for such purposes for many years down the line ...

a pic would really help me define what should be done ...

ken
Embothrium
18 years ago
Any plant can have a nutrient deficiency. Woody plants are the same as herbaceous plants except for having the foliage etc. borne on a woody structure.