Its natural habitat is under tall pine trees or on the edge of deciduous forests. In this microclimate, dogwoods receive filtered sunlight, high humidity, and protection from drying winds. A layer of leaf litter falls each year that benefits the dogwoods shallow root system. Few dogwoods naturally occur in full sun, deep shade, or in poorly drained soil. Dogwoods will grow in a variety of soil types but require good drainage.
Dogwoods prefer a soil that is high in organic matter.
Select a site with partial shade. Trees planted in full sun or deep shade do not grow or flower as well as those grown in partial shade. If a full-sun site is selected, plant in a northern or eastern exposure to protect them from the late afternoon sun. Most dogwoods sold will exhibit variations in flower size and the amount of flowers produced. To ensure adequate flowering, plant in a well-selected and prepared site and purchase named cultivars.