How much water does my dogwood need?

It needs enough to keep the soil evenly moist, not soggy. During dry summer weeks, a deep soak once or twice a week is better than daily light sprinkling.

Can too much sun cause drooping?

Yes, if the plant is in a spot that gets intense afternoon sun, it may wilt to protect itself. If it happens daily, consider providing some afternoon shade.

Why is my variegated dogwood wilting? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger into the soil to check for moisture.
Look for signs of recent digging or root disturbance.
Check if the plant is getting too much direct afternoon sun.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look limp and may feel dry or brittle at the edges. The soil around the base of the plant will be dry and pulling away from the edges of the hole.
What to do: Give the plant a deep soak immediately. Apply 5 to 10 gallons of water slowly at the base, and repeat every 3 to 7 days during hot, dry spells.
Root stress
Possible
How to tell: The plant droops even when the soil is moist. This often happens after transplanting or if the roots are damaged by digging nearby.
What to do: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to keep the roots cool and retain moisture. Avoid disturbing the soil near the root zone while the plant recovers.

Drooping in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your variegated dogwood

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the plant droops in the heat of the day but perks up at night, it is just managing the temperature. If it stays drooped in the morning, it needs water immediately.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch around the base to keep the soil consistently moist. Water deeply during dry weeks to prevent the roots from drying out.

Variegated dogwood: drooping? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your variegated dogwood and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

How much water does my dogwood need?: It needs enough to keep the soil evenly moist, not soggy. During dry summer weeks, a deep soak once or twice a week is better than daily light sprinkling.
Can too much sun cause drooping?: Yes, if the plant is in a spot that gets intense afternoon sun, it may wilt to protect itself. If it happens daily, consider providing some afternoon shade.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my variegated dogwood wilting?