Blue False Cypress is a huge favorite among gardeners, and for good reason! Between its stunning blue-tinted foliage and its impressive growth rate, it looks fantastic whether you’re planting it as a standout specimen or a lush privacy hedge. If you give these young evergreens the right start in the right spot, they’ll reward you by being incredibly hardy and fast-growing.
Pick a Sunny Spot
Blue False Cypresses are total sun-seekers. If you tuck them away in partial or full shade, they won’t be nearly as happy—they’ll grow much slower and lose that vibrant look. Plus, plants stuck in the shade are way more prone to diseases and pesky garden pests.
You’ll also want to find a spot that’s a bit shielded from the wind. Young plants can be a little sensitive to harsh drafts while they’re getting established.
Focus on Nutrient-Rich Soil
To get that lush, healthy growth we all love, you need soil that’s rich in organic matter and nutrients. These conifers aren’t big fans of soil that is overly clay-heavy or high in lime.
The golden rule here is drainage. The soil needs to be loose and airy to prevent “wet feet” (standing water). If your Blue False Cypress sits in soggy soil for too long, it’ll start developing brown patches, lose its vigor, and become an easy target for root rot and other issues.
Fall is the Best Time to Plant
The absolute best time to get your evergreen Blue False Cypress in the ground is during the fall. This gives the young plants plenty of time to establish a solid root system before winter hits. However, if you’re buying container-grown trees from a nursery, you can also get away with planting them in the spring.
If you go the fall-planting route, just make sure to give them a little extra protection during their first winter. A nice thick layer of mulch around the base works wonders.
Here’s a quick step-by-step for getting them in the ground:
- Wear gloves: Safety first! These conifers are actually toxic, so keep your skin protected.
- Dig the hole: Make sure to loosen up the soil at the bottom and sides really well.
- Add drainage: If your soil is heavy, add some gravel or sand at the bottom to keep water moving.
- Boost the nutrients: Mix some compost or organic fertilizer into the soil.
- Plant carefully: Set your Blue False Cypress in the hole gently.
- Finish up: Fill the hole back in, tamp the soil down lightly with your foot, and give it a good soak.
When spacing your plants, keep them about 12 to 20 inches apart for a hedge. If you’re planting one as a standalone tree, give it about 30 square feet of breathing room. Also, try to keep it at least 6 feet away from house walls or your neighbor’s property line to allow for future growth!
