How to Grow Cedar Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Cedar tree is a coniferous evergreen tree that is mostly found in North America. The cedar tree has a wide range of uses including medicinal, its wood being used for building, and even its bark for making rope. The cedar tree is a symbol of strength and stability, and has been used in many cultures for these purposes.

How to Grow Cedar Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

  • Cedrus libani – Cedar of Lebanon
  • Cedrus atlantica – Atlas Cedar
  • Cedrus deodara – Deodar Cedar
  • Juniperus virginiana – Eastern Redcedar
  • Thuja plicata – Western Redcedar

Basic info

  • Cedar trees are evergreen trees that can grow to be over 100 feet tall.
  • They are native to North America, Europe, and Asia.
  • Cedar trees have a straight trunk with branches that grow evenly around it.
  • The leaves of a cedar tree are long and narrow and can be either green or blue-green in color.
  • Cedar trees produce cones that contain seeds.
  • The wood of a cedar tree is strong and durable.
  • Cedar trees are often used as ornamental trees in landscaping.
  • The scent of cedar is often used in essential oils and potpourris.
  • Cedar trees can live for hundreds of years.
  • The cedar tree is the state tree of Virginia.

Related plant:
Emerald Cedar Hedge

Growing Steps

  1. For cedar tree, first step is to find the planting site. The planting site should be in an area that gets full sun and has well-drained soil.
  2. The next step is to dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the tree’s root ball.
  3. After digging the hole, mix some compost or other organic matter into the soil that will be used to backfill the hole.
  4. Once the hole is prepared, it is time to remove the tree from its container. Be careful not to damage the roots when removing the tree from the container.
  5. After the tree is removed from the container, place it in the hole so that the roots are spread out evenly.
  6. The next step is to backfill the hole with the soil mixture that was prepared earlier.
  7. Once the hole is filled, water the tree deeply.
  8. The next step is to apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree. This will help to keep the roots moist and cool.
  9. The final step is to water the tree deeply once per week for the first few months. After the first few months, the tree will need to be watered less frequently.

Related plant:
Eastern Red Cedar

Soil Condition

About soil condition, cedar tree can grow in a very wide range of soils. It is not very choosy. However, cedar tree prefers deep, rich, organic and well-drained soils. It also does not tolerate compacted or waterlogged soils. If the soil is too dry, the tree may stop growing and start to shed its leaves.

Light condition

Like the other trees, cedar trees need sun to grow. They prefer full sun, which means they need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They will also do well in partial sun, which is defined as four to six hours of sunlight each day.

The Temperature

The temperature conditions in the area around the cedar tree are ideal for the tree to grow. The cedar tree is a hardy tree that can withstand cold temperatures and still thrive. The conditions around the tree are also perfect for the growth of other plants and trees.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% Cedar trees are known for their distinct, pleasant scent and their lovely reddish-brown wood. These majestic trees can grow quite tall, up to 150 feet, and live for hundreds of years. They are native to North America, Asia, and Europe, and thrive in humid climates. If you are thinking of planting a cedar tree, make sure the climate where you live has sufficient humidity, as this is crucial for the health of the tree.

Fertilizer Requirement

Discussing fertilizer, this family of plant food is important to cedar trees for several reasons. Fertilizer provides key nutrients that feed the root system and help the tree to grow strong and healthy. Fertilizer also helps the tree to resist disease and pests.

About light

Pruning a cedar tree is important to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming too large. It is best to prune in the early spring before new growth begins. To prune, first remove any dead or dying branches. Next, cut back any branches that are growing too long or too wide. Finally, trim any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

About Propagating

Propagation is mostly through Cedar trees growing from seed. The tree produces a large number of cones, each of which contains numerous seeds. The cones open when they are ripe and the seeds are dispersed by the wind. The trees can also be propagated by rooting cuttings taken from young trees.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate studies have been conducted on young, actively growing trees. The typical cedar tree growth rate is between 1 and 2 feet per year. However, the growth rate of cedar trees can vary significantly depending on the species, age, health, and environmental conditions.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are root and needle problems. If the roots are not getting enough water, they will start to turn brown and die. If the needles are turning brown and falling off, it is probably due to drought or too much sun.

List to Know

  • If you live in an area with cold winters, it's best to plant cedar trees in the spring.
  • Choose a location for your cedar tree that receives full sun.
  • Cedar trees need well-drained soil. Add organic matter to the soil to help improve drainage.
  • Water your cedar tree regularly during the first growing season to help it establish a deep root system.
  • Fertilize your cedar tree once a year with a slow-release fertilizer.
  • Prune your cedar tree regularly to encourage new growth and maintain its shape.
  • Cedar trees are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. Watch for signs of problems and treat accordingly.
  • Cedar trees can be damaged by strong winds. Protect young trees by staking them.
  • Harvest cedar cones when they turn brown. The cones can be used for crafts or used as mulch.

Alternative Plants

  • Cedar: cedar is a common name of various plants in the genus cedrus/?s?dr?s/, of the family pinaceae, endemic to the mountain ranges of the himalayas, the atlas mountains,
  • Deodar: in hindu mythology, deodar is theTree of Light and is representative of everlasting love and life. it is the national tree of the republic of nepal and
  • Cypress tree: cypress tree or Tree of Life may refer to:

Source:
Blue Atlas Cedar | Yale Nature Walk
Cryptomeria japonica (Japanese Cedar, Japanese Cryptomeria)
Redcedar, Eastern | Nebraska Forest Service

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Trees Category