If you’re looking for a fast-growing, evergreen privacy screen, look no further than the Leyland Cypress. It’s a huge favorite for home gardens because it looks elegant, stays green year-round, and does a fantastic job of blocking out nosy neighbors and harsh winds. Want to grow yours like a pro? I’ve put together some tips to help you plant and care for your hedge the right way.
Why Leyland Cypress is the Ultimate Low-Maintenance Hedge
There aren’t many trees that grow as fast as the Leyland Cypress. We’re talking a massive 2 to 3 feet of new height every single year!
Here’s why it’s a top pick for your yard:
- It grows incredibly fast.
- It’s hardy and handles frost like a champ.
- It’s super tough, making it low-maintenance and resistant to most diseases.
- The lush, deep green foliage looks beautiful in any season.
Finding the Sunny Sweet Spot
Your hedge will be happiest in a bright, sunny spot. While Leyland Cypresses can handle partial shade, they really thrive with plenty of light and a bit of protection from the elements. If they’re stuck in a very exposed, windy area, they might suffer some “winter burn” during those extra-cold freezes.
As for the soil, they prefer it slightly acidic and well-draining. If you have heavy clay soil, make sure to add some drainage before planting. These trees definitely don’t like “wet feet” (standing water).
Timing is Everything: Planting in Late Summer
The best time to get your planting done is during August and September. This gives them time to settle in before winter.
Here’s how to get them in the ground:
- Dig a trench about 2 feet wide. It should be twice as deep as the root ball.
- Mix in some garden soil and boost it with a specialized conifer fertilizer.
- Don’t bury them too deep! Make sure the plant sits at the same level in the ground as it did in its nursery pot.
- Fill the rest of the hole with soil and gently tamp it down with your foot.
- Give your new hedge a good, long drink of water.
If you want a dense screen as quickly as possible, aim for 3 plants per yard. If you’re not in a huge rush, 2 plants per yard works fine too. Generally, a planting distance of about 12 to 20 inches between trees is the way to go.
Keep the Water Coming
Because these trees grow so fast, they’re hungry for nutrients. Give them a boost in the spring with a hedge-specific fertilizer, and follow up with some organic nitrogen (like horn meal) in the summer.
Leyland Cypresses are not fans of drought. You’ll need to water them regularly—even in the winter! Dry, mild winters can actually dry out your hedge faster than you’d think. Just make sure to water on days when the ground isn’t frozen, and always avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Pruning for a Lush, Thick Look
To get that “living wall” effect, you’ll want to prune your cypresses twice a year. Aim for the first trim in early spring right before the new growth starts, and give them a second haircut at the end of August. This keeps the hedge thick, healthy, and looking sharp!
