Cypress trees have made the journey from the balmy Mediterranean to our neck of the woods, but let’s be real: they can be a bit picky about where they settle down. If you want this Mediterranean beauty to thrive for years to come, you’ve got to pick the perfect spot. So, where exactly should your cypress put down roots?
Cypress Wanted: A Spot That Feels Like Home
Growing Italian Cypresses in the States can be a bit of a challenge depending on your zone. Our climate is often a far cry from the sunny Mediterranean. While they handle our summers just fine, winter can be a real dealbreaker. If you live in a mild region that doesn’t get hit with constant heavy rain, you can definitely look for a permanent spot in your yard. Otherwise, your best bet is growing them in large pots so you can move them to a protected winter shelter.
Choose Your Spot Wisely
Take your time picking the right location, because cypresses are notorious for hating to be transplanted. They develop a complex root system pretty early on. If you realize later that you picked a bad spot, you’ll need to move the tree by its fourth year at the absolute latest; otherwise, it might not survive the move.
It’s All About Light and Heat
Think of sun and warmth as the fuel for your cypress’s growth. This goes for trees in the ground and those living on the patio or balcony.
- Full sun to partial shade
- Ideally, a spot that gets baked in the sun
- Sheltered from harsh winds
The soil needs to be well-draining because cypresses absolutely cannot stand “wet feet” (standing water). If your soil is heavy, add a drainage layer. They also love nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic pH.
Pro Tip:
Cypresses are long-lived evergreens that can reach heights of up to 30 feet even in a home garden. Make sure you leave enough planting distance from your neighbor’s property line and your own house walls.
A Change of Scenery for Winter
If your cypress is planted in the ground, it’ll have to tough it out with some winter protection. However, if yours is in a container, you’ll likely need to move it to a “winter home.” This could be under a porch roof, tucked against a warm house wall, or inside a bright room kept between 40°F and 60°F.
Pro Tip:
Whether you’ve overwintered your tree or you’re growing one from scratch indoors, don’t move it directly into the harsh spring sun. Acclimate it gradually so the needles don’t turn yellow from sunburn.
