When it comes to planting Redosier dogwood (Cornus sericea) in windbreaks and shelterbelts, it is important to consider the spacing between each plant. Ideally, Redosier dogwoods should be placed 8-10 feet apart in a row. This spacing allows for adequate air circulation and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to competition for resources and poor growth.
One of the key considerations when planting Redosier dogwood is its potential to spread through suckering. Redosier dogwoods are known for their ability to produce new shoots from the base of the plant, forming dense thickets over time. To prevent this, it is advisable to plant them at a distance of 20 feet from any evergreen species or other shrubs that you do not want to be overwhelmed by the spreading nature of the Redosier dogwood.
In my personal experience, I have seen the unchecked spread of Redosier dogwoods in windbreaks and shelterbelts, which can become problematic if not properly managed. The dense thickets formed by their suckering habit can impede maintenance activities, limit access to the area, and potentially outcompete other desired plant species.
To avoid these problems, careful planning and consideration of the overall design and purpose of the windbreak or shelterbelt is crucial. It may be more effective to choose alternative shrub species that offer better performance and do not have the same aggressive spreading tendencies as Redosier dogwood.
When planting Redosier dogwood in windbreaks and shelterbelts, it is recommended to space them 8-10 feet apart in a row and keep them at least 20 feet away from any evergreen or other shrub species that you do not want to be overwhelmed by their spreading nature. Proper planning and consideration of alternative shrub species can help avoid the potential problems associated with the unchecked spread of Redosier dogwood.
