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Problems With Growing Leyland Cypress
Problems With Growing Leyland Cypress. Leyland cypress are fast growing, evergreen, cone-shaped trees. They are popular as Christmas trees due to the fact that they are so fast growing and do not trigger allergies. Leyland cypress trees can tolerate vigorous pruning, and are often grown as hedges. However, there are many issues and problems...
Leyland cypress are fast growing, evergreen, cone-shaped trees. They are popular as Christmas trees due to the fact that they are so fast growing and do not trigger allergies. Leyland cypress trees can tolerate vigorous pruning, and are often grown as hedges. However, there are many issues and problems associated with growing Leyland cypress trees.
Fast Growth
The leyland cypress is a fast-growing tree. It can grow as much as 4 feet per year, sometimes even more. For this reason, it is not recommended for use in residential landscapes. It must be heavily pruned to contain the growth if used as an ornamental tree. In addition, the stem and roots of a young tree are quite shallow and weak, and the fast growth of the tree does not give them much time to strengthen. They are susceptible to root or stem rot if planted in too deep a hole. These trees also tend to list or even fall over in a windstorm, so they should be staked when young.
Disease
The most common disease that affects the leyland cypress is Seiridium canker. It is also the most damaging, as it can spread rapidly through the tree. Affected branches quickly turn brown and die, and should be completely removed as soon as black or brown spots appear on them. There is no chemical cure or prevention for this disease. Leyland cypress trees are very susceptible to root diseases. The two most common are Phytophthora root rot and Annosus root. Both of these will cause the tree to die slowly. In some cases, the tree will gradually turn brown. In others, the tree will suddenly turn reddish-brown, and may even fall over. These root diseases are most common in young trees. Because root disease begins underground, it is usually not noticed until the tree has already died.
Pests and Other Problems
Bagworm is the most common insect problem in leyland cypress trees, as well as other types of cypress trees. The aggressive bagworm can completely rid a tree of all foliage in as little as one week. It is usually noticed too late to kill the insect. Other common problems when growing leyland cypress trees include issues with watering. Over-watering kills more leyland cypress trees than any other problem. Under-watering will not kill the tree, but it will greatly slow the growth of the tree. Trees that are newly planted should only be watered twice per week. If the weather is very hot, use a drip system. Never leave standing water around a leyland cypress.
