How to Plant Leyland Cypress Trees: Spacing

The Leyland cypress tree is a popular evergreen tree that is often used for privacy screening and windbreaks due to its fast-growing nature and tight growth habit. However, planting Leyland cypress trees requires some planning, particularly when it comes to spacing. In this article, we’ll go over the proper spacing and other considerations when planting Leyland cypress trees.

1. Determine the Ideal Spacing

The first step in planting Leyland cypress trees is to determine the ideal spacing. This will depend on the purpose of the planting, the size of the trees, and the site conditions. For privacy screening and windbreaks, the trees should be planted close enough together to create a dense barrier, but not so close that they will grow together and compete for resources.

As a general rule, Leyland cypress trees should be spaced approximately 10-12 feet apart in rows, with the rows spaced 10-12 feet apart. This will allow for proper air circulation and prevent diseases from spreading between trees. If you’re planting in a windy area, you may want to space the trees closer together to create a more effective windbreak.

2. Consider the Mature Size of the Trees

When deciding on the spacing of Leyland cypress trees, it’s important to consider the mature size of the trees. These trees can grow up to 60 or 70 feet tall and 15-25 feet wide. You should plan for this and make sure there’s plenty of room for the trees to reach their full potential without overcrowding other structures or plants.

Additionally, if you’re planting near a property line, be sure to check the local zoning ordinances to make sure that you’re not planting the trees too close to the property line. Some areas have restrictions on how close trees can be planted to property lines.

3. Prepare the Planting Site

Before planting Leyland cypress trees, it’s important to prepare the planting site properly. This involves clearing the area of any weeds, grass, or other debris that may interfere with the growth of the trees. You should also test the soil to determine its pH level and make any necessary amendments to ensure that the soil is suitable for the trees.

Once the site is cleared and prepared, dig a hole that is roughly twice the size of the root ball of the tree. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure that the tree is planted at the same depth as it was in the nursery pot. Water thoroughly after planting.

4. Maintain Proper Care and Pruning

After planting Leyland cypress trees, it’s important to maintain proper care and pruning. This includes watering regularly, fertilizing as needed, and pruning to maintain the desired shape and size of the trees. Leyland cypress trees are susceptible to a number of diseases, so it’s important to watch for signs of disease and take action if necessary.

You should also be aware of the potential for overcrowding and adjust the spacing of the trees as needed. In some cases, you may need to remove a tree if it’s not growing properly or if it’s too close to other trees.

Conclusion

By following these guidelines, you can plant Leyland cypress trees with confidence and enjoy their fast growth and attractive appearance for years to come. Proper spacing is just one of the key factors to consider when planting these trees, so be sure to also take into account the mature size of the trees, the planting site conditions, and proper care and pruning techniques.