Leyland Cypress

My first feature is the Leyland Cypress.  I do love this Christmas tree and have planted two in the landscape.  They seem to do well in sun or in part shade.  They do get large and are moderate growers for me at about a foot a year.  They are both located on the Southern exposure.  What I like about this particular plant is that it is evergreen all year round and does not lose its leaves.  The more sun it gets; the better the tree will look.  This tree in Tucson doesn't seem to mind the clay soil nor does it get dried ends at the tips.  You can give it water without fear of overwatering and killing the plant.  For me it gets a weekly watering on the grounds and is easy to grow. As with other plants of this category, you can sometimes overwater and kill the entire plant. Here are the facts.

This tree makes a lovely addition at the El Presidio Garden.

* Grows up to 3-4 ft. per year and again, this may vary depending on your soil
* Drought tolerant
* Feathery soft texture

Leylands are the most popular privacy tree. They grow very fast and thicken to create a solid wall.
Its feathery texture is soft to the touch. Stays green all year-round, giving you complete privacy.

They....

* Have established root systems that quickly adapt to soil and climate
* Mature to a majestic pyramidal form
* Thrive in Growing Zones 6-10
* Demonstrate tolerance to drought
*  Mature Height: 60-70 ft. 20-30 ft. in rows

*  Mature Width: 15-20 ft. 5-10 ft. in rows
Grows rapidly for some but here I've observed that it grows moderately. Easily pruned to your desired height and shape. Even without trimming, the Leyland Cypress trees will grow in a uniform, symmetrical shape that gives a dense, living wall. Fast growers, adaptable to a variety of soils and conditions, even sandy and clay.  Space Leylands 6 ft. apart for a privacy hedge or further apart for a spacious property border.  I do like this tree and it adds a little variety to the landscape.  Until tomorrow.....