How do you pot a 2-3 year old bare root Dogwood tree?

This a flowering dogwood that has sprouts on almost every bud and a couple coming from the very top.

It is only about a half inch at the flare above the roots and 3` tall. The roots look well formed and hair roots spread nicely.

I need to pot this and keep in a greenhouse over the winter and plant in the spring.

What do I use to put in my 5 gallon bucket? Any additive?

My last one was potted in topsoil from Home Depot as suggested by a local nursery.

It is dying fast. What am I doing wrong?

Thanks!

RT

How do you pot a 2-3 year old bare root Dogwood tree?
Don't use straight top soil. Whenever we would plant trees, we would always use peat moss. It lightens the soil, and helps retain moisture. Also, add some Hollytone. Dogwood trees love acidity, and Hollytone adds it to the soil.



I would use about 1/2 soil %26amp; 1/2 peat moss. Add Hollytone according to the directions, be sure not to use too much. Keep the tree watered and outside for the summer. Don't let it get too dry, but at the same time, don't drown it.



Be careful when you put it in the greenhouse. Make sure the greenhouse doesn't get too hot, or it will confuse the tree, making it leaf out in winter.



Good luck!
Reply:Topsoil is fine. Pot it now!! And make sure you attend to its water needs.
Reply:The first respondent is right, you cannot use plain topsoil, it needs to be mixed with something - you can use peat moss, perlite or anything else that will stop the soil from compacting.



Top soil compacts extremely easily. The more you water it the more compact it gets to the point that it literally chokes and kills the roots - it also stays damp for MUCH too long and results in root rot that will also kill the tree. Also, the compacted soil does not allow airation which lets oxygen in, which the roots need.



This is the problem that bonsai growers faceand why specialty soils have been designed for potted trees.



For a larger tree, I usually use a mix of about 1/2 potting soil, 1/4 peat moss, 1/4 perlite. If you use a potting soil like miracle grow, there is no need to add anything else as Miracle grow (and most others) add time release fertilizer to the mix.



Lastly, dont water too often, make sure you let it get almost completely dry betwee nwaterings to avoid root rot. And make sure your bucket has drainage holes!!!



Good Luck