Planting Cedar Trees: A Comprehensive Guide for Success

Cedar trees, known for their aromatic wood, elegant form, and resilience, are a popular choice for landscaping. Whether you’re aiming to create a privacy screen, add a stately specimen tree to your yard, or establish a windbreak, cedars can be a fantastic option. However, successful planting requires careful planning and execution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from selecting the right cedar variety to ensuring its long-term health.

Why Choose Cedar Trees?

Before we dive into the planting process, let’s explore the benefits of choosing cedar trees:

* **Aromatic Wood:** Cedarwood is prized for its distinctive fragrance, which naturally repels moths and other insects.
* **Attractive Appearance:** Cedars come in various shapes and sizes, from tall, slender varieties to broad, spreading forms, offering versatility in landscaping design.
* **Evergreen Foliage:** Cedars retain their lush green foliage throughout the year, providing year-round visual interest and privacy.
* **Durability:** Cedarwood is naturally rot-resistant, making it an excellent choice for outdoor applications like siding, fencing, and decking.
* **Wildlife Habitat:** Cedar trees provide shelter and food for various wildlife species, contributing to biodiversity.
* **Low Maintenance:** Once established, cedar trees generally require minimal care.

Choosing the Right Cedar Variety

Several cedar varieties are available, each with its unique characteristics. Consider the following factors when selecting the right cedar for your location:

* **Climate:** Cedars are generally hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 4-9, but specific varieties may have narrower ranges. Check the plant label or consult with a local nursery to ensure the cedar is suitable for your climate.
* **Size and Shape:** Cedars can range in size from dwarf cultivars reaching only a few feet tall to towering giants exceeding 100 feet. Consider the mature size and shape of the cedar to ensure it fits your landscape design and doesn’t outgrow its space.
* **Soil Conditions:** Cedars prefer well-drained soil, but some varieties are more tolerant of clay or sandy soils. Amend the soil as needed to improve drainage and fertility.
* **Sun Exposure:** Most cedars thrive in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day), but some varieties can tolerate partial shade. Check the plant label for specific sun exposure requirements.

Here are some popular cedar varieties to consider:

* **Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana):** A native North American cedar known for its adaptability and drought tolerance. It can grow up to 60 feet tall and is often used for windbreaks and wildlife habitat.
* **Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata):** A majestic cedar native to the Pacific Northwest. It can grow over 200 feet tall in its natural habitat but typically reaches 50-70 feet in cultivation. Western red cedar is prized for its aromatic wood and graceful form.
* **Deodar Cedar (Cedrus deodara):** A native of the Himalayas, known for its graceful, drooping branches and bluish-green foliage. It can grow up to 80 feet tall and is often used as a specimen tree.
* **Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica):** Native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa, prized for its blue-green needles and pyramidal shape. It can grow up to 60 feet tall.
* **Leyland Cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii):** Although technically a cypress hybrid (not a true cedar), it is very commonly referred to as a cedar. A fast-growing evergreen that is frequently used for privacy screens and hedges. It can grow 3-4 feet per year, reaching heights of 60-70 feet.
* **’Emerald Green’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’):** Another Arborvitae, also commonly referred to as a cedar, is a slow-growing, compact cultivar known for its vibrant green foliage and narrow, pyramidal shape. It typically reaches 10-15 feet tall and is an excellent choice for small gardens or hedges.

When purchasing cedar trees, choose healthy specimens with a well-developed root system and no signs of disease or pests. Inspect the foliage for discoloration, spots, or insect damage. Avoid trees that are root-bound or have circling roots, as these may have difficulty establishing in the ground.

Preparing for Planting

Before planting your cedar trees, it’s essential to prepare the planting site. This includes:

* **Choosing the Right Location:** Select a location that meets the cedar’s sun exposure, soil, and space requirements. Ensure the area is free of overhead obstructions, such as power lines or overhanging branches.
* **Testing the Soil:** Conduct a soil test to determine the pH level and nutrient content. Cedars prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). Amend the soil as needed to adjust the pH and improve fertility. Soil testing kits are available at most garden centers or through your local agricultural extension office.
* **Clearing the Area:** Remove any grass, weeds, rocks, or debris from the planting area. This will reduce competition for water and nutrients and make it easier to dig the planting hole.
* **Digging the Planting Hole:** Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. This will allow the roots to spread easily and establish in the surrounding soil. Do not dig deeper than the root ball, as this can lead to root rot.

Step-by-Step Planting Instructions

Now that you’ve prepared the planting site, it’s time to plant your cedar trees. Follow these step-by-step instructions for successful planting:

**Step 1: Remove the Cedar from the Container**

* Gently remove the cedar from its container. If the roots are tightly bound, carefully loosen them with your fingers or a small tool.
* If the tree is root-bound, use a knife or saw to make several vertical cuts along the root ball. This will encourage the roots to grow outward into the surrounding soil.

**Step 2: Position the Cedar in the Planting Hole**

* Carefully lower the cedar into the planting hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Avoid planting the cedar too deep, as this can lead to root rot.
* If the soil is compacted, gently loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to improve drainage.

**Step 3: Backfill the Planting Hole**

* Backfill the planting hole with the soil you removed earlier, gently tamping it down around the root ball. Avoid compacting the soil too much, as this can restrict root growth.
* If the soil is poor quality, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.

**Step 4: Water the Cedar Thoroughly**

* Water the cedar thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and hydrate the roots. Apply water slowly and deeply, allowing it to soak into the surrounding soil.
* Check the soil moisture regularly and water as needed, especially during dry periods. The soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged.

**Step 5: Mulch Around the Cedar**

* Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the cedar tree to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use organic mulch, such as wood chips, bark, or pine needles.
* Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk of the cedar to prevent rot.

**Step 6: Stake the Cedar (Optional)**

* If the cedar is tall or exposed to strong winds, stake it to provide support and prevent it from being uprooted. Use two or three stakes placed around the tree, and tie them to the trunk with soft ties.
* Remove the stakes after the cedar has established a strong root system, typically after one or two growing seasons.

Caring for Your Cedar Trees

Once your cedar trees are planted, it’s essential to provide ongoing care to ensure their health and longevity. Here are some tips for caring for your cedar trees:

* **Watering:** Water newly planted cedars regularly, especially during dry periods. Once established, cedars are relatively drought-tolerant, but they still benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
* **Fertilizing:** Cedars generally don’t require heavy fertilization. However, if the soil is poor or the cedar is not growing vigorously, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label carefully.
* **Pruning:** Cedars typically don’t require extensive pruning. However, you can prune them to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches, or to shape the tree. Prune cedars in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Avoid pruning too heavily, as this can stress the tree.
* **Pest and Disease Control:** Cedars are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to certain problems, such as spider mites, bagworms, and root rot. Inspect your cedars regularly for signs of pests or diseases, and take appropriate action if necessary. Consult with a local nursery or arborist for recommendations on pest and disease control.
* **Mulching:** Maintain a layer of mulch around the base of the cedar tree to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Replenish the mulch as needed.
* **Weed Control:** Keep the area around the cedar tree free of weeds, as they can compete for water and nutrients. Hand-pull weeds or use a hoe to remove them. Avoid using herbicides, as they can damage the cedar tree.
* **Winter Protection:** In cold climates, protect young cedars from winter damage by wrapping the trunk with burlap or tree wrap. This will help prevent sunscald and cracking of the bark. You can also apply an anti-desiccant spray to the foliage to reduce moisture loss during the winter.

Troubleshooting Common Cedar Tree Problems

Even with the best care, cedar trees can sometimes encounter problems. Here are some common cedar tree problems and how to troubleshoot them:

* **Browning Foliage:** Browning foliage can be caused by various factors, including drought stress, nutrient deficiencies, pests, diseases, or winter damage. Determine the cause of the browning and take appropriate action. Water the cedar thoroughly during dry periods, fertilize if necessary, and treat any pests or diseases.
* **Yellowing Foliage:** Yellowing foliage can be a sign of nutrient deficiencies, poor drainage, or root rot. Test the soil to determine if there are any nutrient deficiencies, and amend the soil as needed. Improve drainage by loosening compacted soil or installing a drainage system. If root rot is suspected, consult with an arborist.
* **Sparse Foliage:** Sparse foliage can be caused by inadequate sunlight, nutrient deficiencies, or pests. Ensure the cedar is receiving adequate sunlight, fertilize if necessary, and treat any pests.
* **Branch Dieback:** Branch dieback can be caused by diseases, pests, or environmental stress. Prune out any dead or diseased branches, and treat any pests or diseases. Ensure the cedar is receiving adequate water and nutrients, and protect it from environmental stress.
* **Root Rot:** Root rot is a fungal disease that can occur in poorly drained soils. Symptoms include yellowing foliage, stunted growth, and branch dieback. Improve drainage by loosening compacted soil or installing a drainage system. Avoid overwatering the cedar. In severe cases, you may need to remove the tree.

Cedar Trees and Wildlife

Cedar trees are not only beautiful additions to the landscape, but they also provide valuable habitat for wildlife. Birds use cedar trees for nesting and shelter, and the berries provide a food source. Small mammals, such as squirrels and rabbits, also use cedar trees for shelter and food.

Planting cedar trees can help support local wildlife populations and contribute to biodiversity. Consider planting a variety of cedar species to provide a diverse habitat for different wildlife species.

Propagating Cedar Trees

If you want to expand your cedar collection, you can propagate cedar trees from cuttings or seeds. Here’s a brief overview of each method:

* **Cuttings:** Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or early fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining rooting medium. Keep the cuttings moist and provide them with indirect sunlight. Rooting can take several weeks or months.
* **Seeds:** Collect cedar cones in the fall and extract the seeds. Stratify the seeds by storing them in a refrigerator for several months. Sow the seeds in the spring in a well-draining seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide the seedlings with indirect sunlight.

Propagating cedar trees can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging. Be patient and persistent, and you may be able to grow new cedar trees from cuttings or seeds.

Conclusion

Planting cedar trees can be a rewarding experience, adding beauty, fragrance, and ecological benefits to your landscape. By following these comprehensive steps, you can ensure the successful establishment and long-term health of your cedar trees. Remember to choose the right cedar variety for your climate and soil conditions, prepare the planting site carefully, and provide ongoing care to your trees. With a little effort, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of cedar trees for many years to come.

By choosing the right variety, carefully preparing the planting site, and providing ongoing care, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of cedar trees for many years to come. They make excellent additions to any garden and are worth the investment of time and effort.