Leyland Cypress Tree: Information About Leyland Cypress Trees
The feathery, blue-green foliage on flat stems of Leyland cypress makes it a visually appealing option for medium-sized to large landscapes. Leyland cypress trees are a great option for a fast specimen, lawn tree, or privacy hedge because they grow three feet (1 meter) or more every year. Growing healthy trees will be made easier with knowledge about Leyland cypress.
Details Regarding Leyland Cypress
The Leland cypress, or Cupressocyparis leylandii, is a rare and fruitful hybrid of the Cupressus and Chamaecyparis genera. Leyland cypress only lives 10 to 20 years, which is short for an evergreen tree. In the Southeast, this tall evergreen conifer is farmed for profit to be used as Christmas trees. Growing to a height of 50 to 70 feet (15–20 meters), the tree may overpower small residential properties despite having a spread of only 12 to 15 feet (4-5 meters). As a result, Leyland cypress trees grow best in larger spaces. Because it can withstand salt spray, the tree is also beneficial in coastal landscapes.
Growing Leyland Cypress Trees: A Guide
Leyland cypress trees require rich, well-drained soil and a spot that receives full sun or some shade. Steer clear of windy areas where the tree could topple. Plant the tree in a hole that is roughly twice as wide as the root ball, with the soil line of the tree level with the surrounding soil. The soil you removed from the hole should be used to backfill it without any amendments. As you fill the hole, use your foot to press down and eliminate any trapped air.
Leyland Cypress Health Care
Care for Leyland cypress trees is minimal. In the event of a protracted drought, give them plenty of water, but don’t overdo it as this can cause root rot. Frequent fertilizer is not required for the tree. Keep an eye out for bagworms and try to get rid of the bags before the larvae inside can hatch.
Developing a Pruned Leyland Cypress Hedge
Leyland cypress grows narrowly and columnarly, which makes it perfect for use as a hedge to block out unwanted views or preserve your privacy. Plant the trees with a distance of three feet (1 meter) between them to create a pruned hedge. Top them to about 6 inches (15 cm) below the desired height of the hedge once they get about a foot (31 cm) above it. To keep the hedge the same height and shape, prune the shrubs in the middle of summer each year. However, pruning in wet weather can result in illness.
