A Practical Handbook to Growing and Caring for Cypress Trees

The cypress tree generates different mental images that produce multiple distinct visualizations. The name brings to mind two images, which include twisted tree roots from Louisiana bayou waters and tall trees that grow on Tuscan hills under the sun. This conifer demonstrates its ability to grow in various regions, which range from California's coastal cliffs to Arizona's desert wash areas.

The cypress tree grows successfully in various climates, which leads all gardeners to ask these three questions: Which species suits my zone? How can I maintain its health after planting? What makes its wood so durable outdoors? The guide presents you with all the details that you need to grow a perfect Cypress tree. 

1. Picking the Right Spot and Soil

   
   

Cypress trees love the sun; give them at least six hours of direct light every day. If they’re stuck in the shade, they grow slower and the needles thin out. Most types want soil that drains well. The exception? Bald cypress. These guys can handle standing water, even shallow ponds. Got heavy clay? Just mix compost into the top layer of the planting hole so you don’t trap too much water.

2. Planting Tips
   

When you’re planting, dig a hole about twice as wide as the root ball, but don’t go any deeper. Make sure the root flare, the spot where the trunk starts to widen, sits right at soil level. That keeps the trunk from rotting. If you see any roots circling around inside the pot, loosen them up. Fill the hole back in with the soil you dug out, press it down, and give the tree a good soak. If you need to stake the tree, don’t tie it too tight. A little movement helps the trunk grow strong.

3. Watering
   

During the first two growing seasons, water your cypress deeply once a week. If it’s really hot or your soil is sandy, water more often. Once the tree’s established, it only needs extra water during long dry spells. Giving it one last deep watering in late fall helps the evergreen leaves hold up through winter.

4. Mulching
   

Spread two or three inches of shredded bark or pine straw out to the edge of the branches, but keep it a few inches away from the trunk. That helps the soil stay moist and keeps decay away from the base. Top off the mulch each year as it breaks down.

5. Pruning
   

Cypress trees usually keep a nice shape on their own, so you don’t need to prune much. In late winter or early spring, cut out any branches that are dead, damaged, or crossing over each other. For Leyland cypress hedges, you can trim them lightly once they hit the height you want, but avoid cutting back too hard.