Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) is a hardy, deciduous shrub loved for its vibrant winter stem colour, seasonal foliage, and wildlife value. A staple of native and mixed hedging, it adds structure, year-round interest, and ecological benefits to gardens, field boundaries, and landscape projects.

In spring and summer, Dogwood produces fresh green leaves and clusters of creamy-white flowers that attract pollinators, followed by dark berries for birds. As the leaves fall in autumn, striking red stems are revealed, providing a dramatic burst of winter colour. Easy to grow and adaptable, it thrives in most soils and conditions and responds well to pruning.

Supplied as bare root plants and delivered from November, Dogwood is a cost-effective way to add seasonal interest and biodiversity to native hedging schemes.

Key Features:

• Hardy deciduous shrub with vivid red winter stems

• Creamy-white spring flowers and dark autumn berries for wildlife

• Provides year-round structure and seasonal interest

• Fast-growing, low-maintenance, and versatile

• Supplied bare root for cost-effective planting in November

Planting & Care:

• Position: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Any well-drained soil, including clay or chalk

• Watering: Water during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature

• Pruning: Cut back hard in late winter to encourage vibrant new growth

• Spacing: Plant 3–5 per metre for a dense hedge

Design Ideas:

• Plant as part of a mixed native hedge with field maple, hawthorn, or hazel

• Use for winter colour and seasonal structure in garden borders or boundaries

• Ideal for wildlife-friendly hedging in rural or urban gardens

Final Thought:
With its striking winter stems, wildlife-friendly flowers and berries, and easy-care nature, Dogwood is an outstanding choice for native and mixed hedging. Delivered bare root from November, it offers year-round beauty and biodiversity at excellent value.

Pros:

1. Cost-Effective: Bare root plants are generally cheaper than potted plants.
2. Variety: Greater selection of species available.
3. Establishment: Often establish quickly in the garden.

Cons:

1. Timing: Must be planted during the dormant season (late autumn to early spring).
2. Initial Care: Require careful handling and timely planting.

Preparation for Planting:

1. Soak Roots: Immerse the roots in water for a few hours before planting to rehydrate them.
2. Inspect: Trim any damaged roots with clean, sharp scissors.
3. Dig Hole: Ensure the hole is wide enough to spread roots out without bending them.
4. Consider Cutting back: Cutting back by up to 1/3, especially on taller plants will reduce possible losses and improve plant establishment.

Planting Process:

1. Plant Depth: Plant at the same depth they were grown in the nursery, indicated by the soil mark on the stem.
2. Fill Hole: Backfill with soil, ensuring no air pockets around the roots.
3. Water: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

Possibility of Losses:

• Adjustment Period: Some plants may not survive the transition due to transplant shock or poor initial care.
• Mitigation: Proper planting techniques and aftercare, like regular watering and mulching, can reduce losses.

Aftercare Tips:

1. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the establishment period.
2. Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
3. Protection: Protect young plants from extreme weather and pests.

Bare root planting is a straightforward, economical way to enhance your garden, provided you follow these essential steps to ensure successful establishment.

Full Guide to planting bare root can be found here

Dogwood Hedging Bare Root 60-100 cm Delivery jan/Feb Grasslands Nursery

Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.