Korean Dogwoods Were No-Shows This Year

There was a dramatic difference in the blooms on Korean dogwoods this year compared to 2011. Last year, the Korean dogwoods in town were completely covered with white flowers, exemplified by this tree on Snowden Lane.

This year, whole sections of the tree were bare, a condition replicated elsewhere in town.
(Photo taken May 30)

I have yet to find any information on why there'd be such a dramatic difference. Oaks vary year to year in how many acorns they produce. The die-off of white pines and other conifers last year was said to be due to a severe drought the year before. Trauma can be delayed in its expression. It could be that the heavy investment in flowering last year left this and other Korean dogwoods with fewer resources this spring.