Maintenance Landscaping Design

Cedar shrubs is a popular plant that is known for its distinct aroma and its many benefits. The plant is native to North America and is commonly used in landscaping. Cedar shrubs are known to be low maintenance and are able to thrive in a variety of climates. The plant is also known for its ability to deter pests, making it an ideal choice for those who are looking for a natural way to protect their home.

Alternative name

• Arborvitae
  
• Thuja
  
• Cypress
  
• Juniper
  

Good to Know

• Cedar shrubs are low-maintenance plants that can thrive in a variety of soils and climates.
  
• They are known for their ability to tolerate drought and cold temperatures.
  
• Cedar shrubs have shallow roots that make them susceptible to wind damage.
  
• Pruning cedar shrubs is important to maintain their shape and prevent them from becoming overgrown.
  
• Cedar shrubs are popular choices for hedges and foundation plantings.
  
• They can also be used as specimen plants in the landscape.
  
• Cedar shrubs are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors.
  
• Some common varieties of cedar shrubs include the following:
  
• Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis),
  
• Deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara), and
  

Related plant:
Emerald Cedar Hedge

Growing Steps

1. For cedar shrubs, first step is to locate a spot in your garden that receives full sunlight.
   
2. Clear the area of any debris or weeds.
   
3. Add a layer of organic matter to the soil to help with drainage.
   
4. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the shrub’s root ball.
   
5. Place the shrub in the hole and backfill with soil.
   
6. Water the shrub deeply to settling the soil around the roots.
   
7. Spread a layer of mulch around the shrub to help with weed control and moisture retention.
   
8. Fertilize the shrub in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
   
9. Prune the shrub as needed to maintain its shape.
   
10. Keep an eye out for pests or diseases and treat as needed.

Related plant:
Cedar Tree

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, cedar shrubs prefers well-drained to moist soil, but can also grow in dry, sandy soil. They are tolerant of different soil types, but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil. Chalk and limestone soils are also suitable for cedar shrubs.

About light

Not too different with other plants, cedar shrubs need sun to grow. They prefer full sun, but will also do well in partial sun. If you live in an area with hot summers, it's best to plant your cedar shrub in a spot that gets some afternoon shade.

The Temperature

The temperature conditions that are ideal for growing cedar shrubs are those that are cool and moist. The shrubs do not tolerate heat well and will often die back in hot, dry conditions. They need some protection from the full sun, so a site that is shaded for part of the day is ideal.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 60-70%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off.

Fertilizing

Discussing fertilizer, this family of plant is not too needy when it comes to added foods. In fact, over-fertilizing can actually be detrimental to these plants. A light feeding in early spring, with a organic-based fertilizer, is all that is really needed to keep them looking their best. As for the roots, cedar shrubs have a very fibrous root system that really doesn't require a lot of extra attention. Once they are established, they are very drought tolerant and don't need a lot of supplemental watering.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of caring for cedar shrubs. It helps to encourage new growth and keep the shrub looking its best. Pruning also helps to control the size and shape of the shrub. Cedar shrubs can be pruned in late winter or early spring.

About Propagating

Propagation is easy from semi-ripe cuttings taken in late summer, or from seed in autumn. Sow seed in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Semi-ripe cuttings can be taken with a heel, in late summer. Use a sharp knife to take a 7-10cm (3-4in) cutting from new growth, and plant it immediately in a sandy, well-drained soil in a cold frame or sheltered border. Firm in well and water regularly.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate falls in between 6 to 12 inches a year. However, some cedar species grow at a much slower or faster rate. The actual growth rate of a cedar shrub depends on a number of factors, such as the species of cedar, the age of the plant, the quality of the soil, the amount of sunlight, and the amount of water.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids, bagworms, and spider mites. These problems can cause the shrub to become stunted, have yellow leaves, and even die. To control these pests, you can use insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil.

Basics of Growing

• Do not forget to water your cedar shrubs regularly. They are easy to forget about because they are slow growers.
  
• Fertilize your cedar shrubs every spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
  
• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your cedar shrubs to help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
  
• Prune your cedar shrubs in late winter or early spring to shape them and encourage new growth.
  
• Cedar shrubs are relatively pest and disease resistant, but keep an eye out for common problems such as spider mites, scale, or canker.
  
• Place your cedar shrubs in an area with full sun to partial shade for best growth.
  
• Cedar shrubs are not drought tolerant, so make sure to water them during extended periods of dry weather.
  
• Cedar shrubs are salt tolerant, so they can be planted near roads or in other

Similar Plants

• Cedar
  
• false cedar
  
• arborvitae
  
• juniper
  
• cypress
  
• sequoia
  
• redwood
  
• spruce
  
• yew
  

Source:
Managing Pests in Gardens: Trees and Shrubs: Cedar—UC IPM - ucanr.edu
Cedar | Texas Natural Resources Server
Eastern Red Cedar | North Carolina Cooperative Extension