It is not for nothing that the Leyland cypress (Cuprocyparis Leylandii) is enjoying increasing popularity as a hedge in the garden. The "bastard cypress" has a very decorative effect due to its fresh colours, which can be light green, green or reddish, depending on the variety. Tips for planting a Leyland cypress hedge.

The Leyland cypress makes an excellent hedge plant

That is why the Leyland cypress is so suitable as a hedge

  • Fast growing
  • conditionally hardy
  • easy-care
  • decorative

Few trees grow as fast as Leyland Cypress. They increase in height and width by between 50 and 100 centimeters per year.

The right location

A Leyland cypress hedge thrives best in a sunny location. But it also grows well in partially shaded places.

The soil must be slightly acidic and nice and loose. In the case of heavy soil, you should definitely create a drainage system, as waterlogging is not tolerated at all.

The location should be somewhat sheltered. In unprotected locations there is a risk that the plants will suffer frost damage at very low minus temperatures.

Plant Leyland Cypress Hedge

  • dig a ditch
  • improve with garden soil and conifer fertilizer
  • Do not plant plants too deeply
  • fill up soil
  • approach carefully
  • pour well

The ideal planting time is in August or September. Dig a trench about 50 centimeters wide. The depth should be about twice the root ball. The trees must not be planted lower than they were in the pot.

If the hedge is to become very dense very quickly, plant three plants per linear meter of hedge. If you are not in such a hurry, two plants per meter are sufficient. The ideal planting distance is 30 to 50 centimetres.

Maintain Leyland cypress hedge properly

Since Leyland cypresses are very fast-growing, they need plenty of nutrients. Fertilize the hedge in the spring with a special hedge fertilizer for conifers. A second fertilization in summer with horn shavings (32.93€) is recommended. When using slow-release fertilizer, one application in spring is sufficient.

Leyland cypress does not tolerate drought. Regular watering is therefore urgently required - even in winter! However, avoid waterlogging so that no root rot can develop.

Especially in dry winters, you need to water the Leyland cypress hedge regularly. Water only on frost-free days.

Leyland cypress hedge trimming

In order for the Leyland cypress hedge to become nice and dense quickly, you have to cut it twice a year.

The first cut takes place in the spring shortly before or during new growth. The second pruning is done at the end of August or in September.

Until the hedge has reached the desired height, trim the top by a third or half of the annual growth. This stimulates growth and the hedge becomes dense more quickly.

tips

In contrast to trees of life such as Thuja, the Leyland cypress does not bare as quickly in the middle. This keeps the hedge nice and tight for many years.

Category:

Trees