How do I get those vibrant red stems on my Cornus sanquinea?
The Cornus alba, sanquinea, sericea (Redtwig dogwoods among others) should be trimmed back early in the spring to rejuvenate the plant. For the brightest twig color, remove the oldest stems by cutting them back to the ground. It will equal about 1/3rd of the entire plant. This way you’ll enjoy the show the following fall, winter and spring.