The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Leyland cypressis a cross between Monterey cypress and Nootka false cypress.
Leyland cypress can be slightly toxic to humans and animals.
It grows best in open, sunny conditions or partially shaded areas.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
However, dense, wet soils are a prescription for root rot, which is usually fatal.
This can be divided into two equal waterings each week during the active growing season.
In winter, reduce watering to just once or twice a month.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Use soaker hoses, not sprinklers that will wet the foliage.
Such sheltering is feasible only while the plants are youngunless you keep them short by pruning.
Fertilizer
Fertilize Leyland cypress in early spring, before new growth begins.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Spread a general-purpose, 10-10-10 fertilizer around the tree’s drip line, according to product label instructions.
There are several cultivars of Leyland cypress, usually named for the color of the foliage.
Trim the sides of Leyland cypress trees every year in July.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
But this usually just slows the progression of the disease rather than stopping it.
Thus, this tree is best propagated from cuttings.
Handled this way, you may be able to slow the otherwise rapid growth rate of this plant.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Most gardeners grow weary of root-pruning this sizable tree every year to keep it small enough for a container.
You may also experience infestations ofspider miteson this tree.
A good solution for this problem is to spray withneem oil.
Leyland cypress is susceptible to root rot caused byAmillariaandPhytophthorafungi, and cankers caused bySeiridiumandBotryoshpaeriafungi.
Cankers are most likely to occur during periods of extended drought.
This is a tree that requires vigorous pruning yearly if you want to keep it at a manageable size.
These can simply be pruned off.
However, there are other dieback issues to watch for.
Leyland cypress grows with a graceful pyramid shape with dense, heavy branches and feathery, scale-like foliage.
Poor air circulation can cause fatal root rot and canker diseases.
Once it serves its function, the tree is often transplanted into the landscape or discarded.
It is often recommended as an alternative to Leyland cypress.
North Carolina State Extension.
x Hesperotropsis leylandii.North Carolina State Extension.
Landscaping for horses requires thoughtful planning.Oklahoma State University.
Cuprocyparis leylandi.Oregon State University College of Agricultural Sciences.
Leyland Cypress.North Carolina State Extension.
Pruning Leyland Cypress Trees.
Leyland Cypress Trees Often Planted Incorrectly.UGA Cooperative Extension.
