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Uprighting a leaning dogwood

BRISTOL86BRISTOL86 Posts: 78
in Plants
We have a large dogwood (c. 5ft tall and similar spread) that leans heavily to one side. I tried to put a heavy stake in the ground and tie it a little more upright but his has just brought the stake to the dogwood and not t’other way round!

Is there a way/correct way to do this without damaging the roots? I can live with it if not but would rather get it s bit more upright if possible!

Its been in the ground for coming up to 3 years so don’t want to cause any damage as it’s very well established 

Posts

  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090
    Photo please?
    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
  • FireFire Posts: 19,096
    edited June 2018
    It would first be worth establishing why the dogwood is leaning - if it is reaching after light.
  • BRISTOL86BRISTOL86 Posts: 78
    Not a great photo but it’s the big one at the back


  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090
    I think you should wait now until it drops its leaves and goes dormant above ground.   Then, you can water it generously - min 10 litres - and leave it to soak overnight.  Next day, loosen the soil all around the shrub but especially on the lower side.   Then pull the main stem over to the right and attach at several points - low, medium, high - to a sturdy stake.  You may need to remove some soil from deep under the right hand side to level it without damaging the roots.

    Push fresh planting compost mixed with some of your garden soil and a bit of bonemeal under the loosened roots to fill any newly formed air pockets.   Firm gently with your foot and water again.   Leave the stake in over winter and adjust the ties as necessary to keep it upright.   Old tights work well or thick twine that won't rub the bark bare and cause wounds.   While the soil is still warm from summer the roots will be able to regenerate and spread to anchor the plant over winter while they're not busy sending up water and nutrients to foliage and flowers but you may need the stake for the whole of next year too.
    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
  • BRISTOL86BRISTOL86 Posts: 78
    Thanks all, great advise :) 
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