The cypress tree is an ancient species that will enhance your property with its majestic beauty. There are many varieties of these deciduous conifers; some common types include the Bald Cypress, Pond Cypress tree, Leyland Cypress and Monterey Cypress.
Most cypress trees have an exceptionally long lifespan, living hundreds of years. These relatives of redwood trees can grow to be quite large, reaching heights of 50 feet or more. Some of the oldest cypress trees have be known to reach heights of mroe than100 feet. While these trees are quite sturdy, there are a few things to know if you plan to plant one in your yard.
Choosing a Location
Careful consideration is required when choosing a location for your new cypress tree. First, remember that the cypress you plant today could possibly still be standing hundreds of years from now. It's also important to remember just how large your cypress may grow, so planting near power lines or too close to the house may not be a good idea. Cypress also requires full sun and acidic soil. Be sure to test soil pH before planting.
Planting Your Tree
Once you have chosen a suitable location, it's time to plant your tree. Cypress trees can be planted any time of the year, but if you live in a cold climate, it is a good idea to plant at least six weeks before the first frost, to give the tree a chance to get established. Begin by digging a hole at least two times larger than the root ball, and equally as deep. Before placing your tree in the hole, fill the whole with water and allow it to absorb. Next, gently loosen the roots of your tree, and place it carefully in the hole. Backfill with soil, and water deeply. Put down a good layer of mulch around the tree to retain moisture.
Care and Maintenance
While the root system of your cypress tree is getting established, it is important to keep it watered well. Once established, you can water it less often. Fertilize regularly with an acidic fertilizer to keep it healthy. You can prune your tree for shape, or allow it to grow naturally. Although cypress trees tend to have long trunks with a wide canopy at the top, different cultivars offer different growth habits, and some take very well to pruning.
Cypress trees are very resistant to diseases and pests as long as their bark is intact and they're not thirsting for water. During droughts and periods of low rainfall, supplemental watering will keep your cypress thriving. Different types of cankers will attack weakened cypress trees, turning the needles brown. As soon as you notice these symptoms, prune the affected branches. Canker can spread rapidly to nearby trees and will kill infected trees if it's left untreated.
With very little effort, your cypress tree will beautify the landscape of your home for generations.
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