How Do I Grow Cypress Trees?

Cypress trees are easy to care for once established.

Cypress trees are grown for privacy hedges in between neighbors thanks to the fact that they grow up to 50 feet tall. They are easy to care for once the roots have established. Planting them during anytime of the year is possible, but it is best to plant them before first frost of the winter season to establish roots before it gets cold.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Water
• Organic mulch
• Balanced fertilizer

Instructions

1. Select an area in your yard that receives full sun in order for the tree to reach its full height. The soil needs to be well-draining. Cypress trees do not flourish at the bottom of a hill, for example, where rain water sits.

2. Dig the hole twice the width and height as the root system. Place the root system in the hole so that the top is even with the ground. Spread the roots in the hole to eliminate air pockets and backfill firmly with the soil. Space trees 8 feet apart, according to the University of Georgia Extension. Mulch with a 4-inch layer of organic mulch to control weeds and retain moisture.

3. Water the tree thoroughly two to three times a week for the first six weeks after planting. Water 1 inch a week during dry spells. Do not over-water; this can cause root rot, turning the limbs of the cypress tree brown. Remove the brown limbs. Prune as necessary for neatness and to control height and width of the tree.

4. Fertilize with a balanced-fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 13-13-13 three to four weeks after planting, suggest Cypress City Website. Apply it four times a year at the beginning of each season. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper usage of the fertilizer for your tree.

References

• Cypress City Net: Planting and Care of Leyland Cypress Trees
• University of Georgia Extension: Preventing Problems with Leyland Cypress
• Fast Growing Trees: Leyland Cypress