The bastard or Leyland cypress is considered easy to care for, fast growing and hardy. It is just as suitable as a solitary plant or for planting a privacy hedge. However, this only looks good if it is cut into shape.
How often should I prune my bastard cypress?
Bastard cypress trees should be pruned two to three times a year to control their size and shape. No pruning is necessary in the first year of planting, and a maximum of two prunings in the following year. Regularly remove diseased and dry branches and use the plant for topiary cuts.
Do I have to prune my bastard cypress regularly?
Without any pruning, the bastard cypress can grow to a height of 20 to 30 meters. If you don't want that, you should use the knife regularly. The same applies if you have planted a hedge of bastard cypress. This needs topiary up to three times a year.
When should I prune the bastard cypress for the first time?
A young cypress tree doesn't need any pruning, but rather time to grow well and form strong roots. Regular water supply is very helpful. If it is dry for a long period of time, water the cypress. The year after planting, begin careful pruning.
How often do I need to prune my bastard cypress?
The frequency of cutting depends on various circumstances, such as the location and purpose of the planting, but also the prevailing weather conditions. Expect to prune your bastard cypress two to three times a year. A cypress hedge in particular should be trimmed often enough so that it gets a nice shape and then keeps it later.
What should I pay attention to when cutting?
As with any plant cutting, you should rigorously remove all diseased and dry shoots. You can then cut your bastard cypress into almost any shape you want. This is quite easy because the cypress grows nice and densely and quite stably.
If you have planted a hedge with these cypresses, then let the plants grow together so that there are no gaps or existing gaps grow over time. In the appropriate places, limit pruning to the absolutely necessary minimum.
The most important things in brief:
- do not prune at all in the year of planting
- maximum 2 prunings in the following year
- Older cypress trees may be pruned more frequently
- remove diseased and dry branches regularly
- is ideal for topiaries
Tip
Without pruning, your bastard cypress can grow to huge size, so start pruning early.
