Replanting North Hills: Keeping Our Dogwoods in Bloom
Every spring, North Hills comes alive in a canopy of pink and white — a living landmark of Knoxville’s Dogwood Trails. These trees aren’t just decoration; they’re part of what makes our neighborhood one of the most scenic routes in the city and a proud stop on the Dogwood Arts Trail since 2016.
But like any living thing, even dogwoods need a little help to keep thriving. Many of our original trees, planted decades ago by Garden Club members and residents, are reaching the end of their natural lifespan or have been lost to disease and harsh sunlight. Replanting now ensures that future generations will enjoy the same beauty we’ve been lucky to grow up under.
Why Dogwoods Matter Here
Dogwoods are deeply tied to the identity of both North Hills and Knoxville. After the city was once famously called “America’s ugliest,” local garden clubs — including ours — joined a citywide effort to prove otherwise, planting thousands of dogwoods across the hillsides and boulevards. That movement sparked the creation of the Dogwood Trails and the annual Dogwood Arts Festival, celebrating our region’s natural beauty.
Those blossoms are more than a symbol of pride — they’re a reminder of community effort and care — and keeping that legacy alive starts in our own yards.
Boulevards in Bloom
Dogwoods are part of what makes our neighborhood one of the most scenic routes in the city.
How to Replant and Care for Dogwoods
If your dogwood has seen better days, or if your yard could use one, now’s the perfect time to plant. The Dogwood Arts “Bazillion Blooms” program offers healthy, locally grown dogwoods each fall, ready for planting during the ideal season for root growth.
Here are a few simple tips for success:
Choose your site carefully. Dogwoods prefer partial shade — morning sun with afternoon protection works best.
Mind the soil. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil rich with organic matter.
Water regularly. Especially in the first two years, water deeply once or twice a week to help roots establish.
Watch for health signs. Yellowing leaves, peeling bark, or thinning crowns can indicate stress or disease. Prune dead limbs and avoid damaging the shallow roots.
Keep Our Trees in Bloom
To keep our trail vibrant, we encourage every North Hills household to plant — or replace — at least one dogwood. Whether it’s a memorial planting, a front-yard feature, or a small cluster along your property line, each tree helps restore the canopy that defines our neighborhood.
You can order trees now through Dogwood Arts’ Bazillion Blooms program. Trees ordered through November 19 will be available for pickup on December 5 and 6 at the Dogwood Arts office.
Together, we can ensure that North Hills remains one of Knoxville’s most iconic spring destinations, bursting with blossoms and community pride for generations to come.