If you are trying to create a backyard hideaway in a short amount of time try Leyland cypress. They are a very fast growing tree with a tall, thin shape, making them perfect screen plants. These perennials can grow four to five feet in one season. Their columnar growth habit helps them fit in along the back of the border, between houses or other tight spots in the landscape.
Not only are they fast growers, leyland cypress or Cupressocyparis leylandii are drought tolerant and heat-resistant once established; usually after the second or third year. Their profile is similar to Italian Cypress, except much wider at the bottom. A mature tree can reach up to 60 feet tall and up to 10 feet around. Like many other members of the cupressaceae family, their upright, long branches are evergreen with flattened greenish blue leaves. Their trunks are reddish brown with a pretty silvery quality and can reach several feet around. Older trees seem to have less foliage at the bottom.
Leyland cypress can take full, hot sun to part shade. These trees are a hybrid between Chamaecyparis nootkatensisi and Cupressus macracarpa. They grow best in USDA Zones 6 to 10A or Sunset Zones 38 - 24.
It is best to space Leyland cypress plants about 10 feet apart. If you plant them too close together they become more susceptible to root rot. Mature tree trunks can measure up to two feet in diameter, so plan accordingly. Deep, infrequent watering will also encourage deep, healthy roots. Good root development helps trees be more drought-resistant and to withstand wind or storms better.
Leyland cypress are useful for partitioning off back yards or covering unsightly views. Over time they will grow into a tall, deep green fence that doesn't need trimming. That leaves you more time to relax and enjoy your backyard retreat.
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