Hello Chris,

Trees work on a different time frame. This is almost surely transplant shock manifesting itself.

Last year the flower buds were probably set when the tree was growing in its fu fu good nursery soil. Then it was dug up and has to regrow the roots it lost.

If the foliage looks normal you are doing what can be done. Cornus kousa and Cornus florida are both a little fussy for me so it sounds like you are doing well.

Is your planting site an ideal one?

Last year, your tree came to you loaded with buds. This year, your tree has had to work to establish a new root system.....that alone may have set the tree off its schedule.

Thank you both. I'm new at this, and also I was not sure when it's buds set, since it's not really a flower. The leaves are full and look very healthy. Can't wait till next spring. :)

HUUUGGGEEE transplant .. in tree time.. 2 or 3 years to get over the stresses of transplant ... if not longer ...

if your only problem is reduced flowers ... then you ought to be doing the happy dance .. and not complaining .. you mention no lack of leaves ...

do remember to do the happy dance in tree time.. its a real slow dance ...

grow the leaves.. which grow the roots.. and the flowers .. will flower.. sooner or later.. whenever the tree feels like producing such ...

it is NOT hungry.. its stressed .. no fert.. ever ...

ken