Leyland Cypress Planting Instructions: How to Plant Leyland Cypress Trees

Once you purchase or propagate your Leyland Cypress trees, you will soon be ready to plant them into their new home. Planting Leyland Cypress trees is simple, however, there are a few precautions you want to take.

Planting Instructions: Before You Plant Your Leyland Cypress Trees

1. Remove any dead or brown foliage from the tree.
2. Make sure Leylands are suitable for your area. Leylands grow best in zones 6-10.
3. Make sure the Leylands have adequate root systems. This is especially important if you are planting a small liner that you propogated yourself. Plants should ideally be at least 8 inches tall when planting with several roots growing.
4. Planting in spring or summer is best. Avoid winter months if possible, and if you plant in the fall, make sure adequately water your Leylands throughout the winter months.

How to Plant Leyland Cypress Trees

1. Choose an area that receives as much sunlight as possible. Leylands thrive in direct sunlight, although they will tolerate partial shade as well.
2. Space the Leyland at least 5 feet away from the nearest tree or shrub. If you are planting a row of Leylands for a privacy screen or windbreak, plant them between 4-8 feet apart (depending on your preference). You can plant them up to 15 feet apart, however, it will take several years for them to create a screen at that distance. Plant them closer when planting as a hedge.
3. Dig a  hole about 2 times the size of the Leyland’s root ball system. Make sure to remove the grass around the hole to prevent weed competition.
4. Remove the Leyland from the original container or pot, and place it into the hole. Gently loosen the soil around the Leyland’s root system. For added nutrients, add potting soil or topsoil to the hole.
5. Do not plant the Leyland’s main stem too far below the ground level, as this can lead to decay and rotting. Plant the Leyland so that they top of the root system is approximately 1/4 inch below the top of the soil.
6. Pack the dirt into the hole, and gently press on it with your hands to secure the Leylandii tree in place.
7. Water the newly planted tree until the soil is moist to the touch. Continue watering the tree as needed to maintain a moist (but not soggy) soil for the next 2-3 months until the root system is established. Do not over-water. If in doubt, it is better to under water as opposed to adding too much water.

Optional Considerations When Planting Leyland Cypress Trees

1. Stake the leylands if necessary, to avoid wind damage or crooked growth. Use wooden or metal stakes and soft cotton string, small rubber landscape tubing, or metal twist ties to secure the trees in place. Remember to adjust the lines or tubing every couple of months to prevent damage to the trunk. Staking is not a requirement, but should be considered if problems occur during the few months of growth.
2. Add fertilizer after the root system has established and water thoroughly for maximum growth rates.
3. Consider adding mulch around Leylands to prevent weed growth. Leylands do have a shallow root system, and excess weeds can interfere with growth rates.
4. Beware of Lawn Mowers! The biggest threat to a newly planted liner is a lawn mower. They blend in with grass and can be difficult to see. So make sure to trim around them first or use markers when mowing.