How Far Apart to Plant Cypress Trees?

Cypress trees require adequate space to grow.

Whether planting cypress trees to add a focal point to a landscape design or to create a hedge, proper spacing of the trees is important. Giving the trees enough space to grow keeps them healthy.

Saplings

When planting saplings or young cypress trees, avoid the temptation to plant them close together to create a hedge or stand of trees. When the saplings grow larger, they will compete with one another for resources like light and water if planted too close together.

Spacing

According to the University of Florida IFAS extension, leaving at least 8 to 10 feet of space between each tree is sufficient, especially when planting for harvesting the wood. This gives the trees enough space to put down roots and grow mature crowns.

Hedge Spacing

Leyland cypress is the tree most commonly used to create a hedge of trees. When planting leyland cypress trees for a hedge, only 6 feet of space is required between each tree. The trees will grow closer together without weakening one another and create a living fence.

References

• University of Florida IFAS Extension; Planting Cypress; Susan W. Vince, et al.; 2009
• University of Tennessee Extension; Evergreen Trees for Screens and Hedges in the Landscape; Donna C. Fare, et al.

Resources

• Alabama Extension System; Canker and Dieback Diseases of Leyland Cypress; Austin Hagan; Oct. 1999