When to Plant Cypress Trees?

Cypress trees are large, hardy trees that are popular specimen trees in home landscapes. Although many cypress tree species are commonly found in swamps, cypress trees readily grow in a variety of environmental conditions with little additional care. Plant cypress trees during the winter to allow the root system to firmly establish itself on your property before spring growth for best results.

Types

Several types of cypress trees are popular for home landscaping projects. Leyland cypress is a fast-growing species that is used for creating natural hedges, windscreens and privacy barriers in home landscapes. Though a cypress tree, Leyland cypress is more similar to a juniper with its broadleaf, feathery foliage. Bald cypress is a large, slow-growing tree that makes an attractive specimen plant in home landscapes. Bald cypress is a deciduous conifer that loses its leaves and cones in the fall.

When to Plant

Cypress trees should be planted in winter, from November to March, when the plants are dormant. However, avoid planting cypress trees in freezing temperatures. The roots are sensitive to cold weather and can be permanently damaged if frozen. Cypress trees grow vigorously in early spring. Planting young cypress trees in winter allows the plant to acclimate to the new growing environment before firmly establishing new growth in spring.

Site Selection and Preparation

Cypress trees are resilient landscaping plants and grow well in a variety of environmental conditions. Cypress trees grow in soil conditions that few landscaping plants can, including locations prone to standing water with poor nutrient levels. No site preparation is needed when planting cypress trees, according to the University of Florida.

Care

Cypress trees require little care once established on you property. Maintain soil moisture with a regular watering regimen during its first season of growth and remove weeds throughout the growing season. Place a 3- to 6-inch layer of organic mulch around young cypress trees to maintain soil moisture and promote healthy root development. Cypress trees have a rapid growth rate and will quickly fill in space on your property; both bald cypress and Leyland cypress trees can grow 3 to 4 feet each year.