Sprays should begin at bud break. Follow label directions and precautions. These late season sprays will not cure tissues already infected, but are aimed at protecting twigs and buds that will be important for tree growth the following year. Many native dogwoods grow in natural situations where it may be impractical or impossible to practice control procedures. Diseases will be worse in some years than in others.
Weather patterns are very important in influencing disease cycles.
Prolonged dry weather tends to slow or stop disease spread. When springs and summers are moist, especially several years in a row, disease incidence and spread will become worse. Damage could be significant. Dead trees have resulted directly and indirectly from heavy anthracnose infections. Weakened trees are subject to other diseases and insect infestation.