How to Grow Cyprus Trees

Plant cypress trees anytime from November until March.

There are two varieties of cypress tree: pond cypress and bald cypress. The leaves of the pond cypress tree grow very close to the branches while the leaves of the bald cypress tend to splay from the branches. Bald cypress is often found growing in swamps. Pond cypress trees occur naturally near smaller bodies of water. such as lakes or ponds. Both varieties do best when planted in full sun. They can grow submerged in water, but will also thrive in normal soil. Cypress trees are fairly drought tolerant once established and are hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 10.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Organic mulch
• Water hose
• Slow release nitrogen fertilizer
• Lopping shears

Instructions

1. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the cypress tree's root ball. Use your fingers to gently loosen any compacted roots.

2. Place the tree into the planting hole and replace the loosened soil. Use your hand to firm the soil and water until well-moistened, but not wet.

3. Add a 3 to 4-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to prevent weed growth and seal in moisture. Continue to water the tree regularly during the first growing season by allowing a water hose to drip into the surrounding soil for half an hour once each week.

4. Feed cypress trees, beginning in the second growing season, using a slow release nitrogen fertilizer. Add one-half pound of fertilizer for each half-inch of trunk size. Spread the fertilizer in an area that is two times the diameter of the tree's canopy.

5. Prune off any damaged or dead branches as they are noticed.

6. Examine the cypress tree often for evidence of pests or disease. If you suspect your tree is unhealthy, clip off a leaf to take to your local extension office for diagnosis and treatment suggestions.

Tips & Warnings

• Store the young trees in a cool, dark place if you cannot plant them immediately.

• Cypress trees need the most water in late spring when they are developing new growth and early fall when they are preparing for dormancy.

• Cypress trees can be propagated by seed.

References

• University of Florida Extension: Planting Cypress
• Floridata: Taxodium Distichum
• Yardener: Caring for Bald Cypress