Maintenance Landscaping Design

Lemon cypress is an evergreen conifer that is native to the eastern mediterranean. it is a popular ornamental plant and is often used in topiary. lemon cypress is a fast-growing plant and can reach up to 15 feet in height. the leaves of the lemon cypress are green and have a lemon-like scent. the flowers are yellow and bloom in the spring.

Also called

• Goldcrest
  
• Emerald Isle
  
• Irish Spring
  
• Lemon Twist
  
• Springtime

Basic info

• Lemon cypress is a member of the Cupressaceae, or Cypress, family.
  
• Native to the island of Crete, Greece, lemon cypress is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall.
  
• The tree has a slender trunk and small, scale-like leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs.
  
• The lemon-scented foliage is what gives this tree its common name.
  
• Lemon cypress is dioecious, meaning that male and female reproductive organs are borne on separate plants.
  
• The tree produces small, yellow-brown cones that contain seeds.
  
• Propagation is typically done through seed, although cuttings can also be taken from mature trees.
  
• Lemon cypress is relatively slow-growing, but can live for 100 years or more.
  
• The tree is used in landscaping and as a houseplant in cooler climates.
  
• Lemon cypress is considered to be an invasive species in some parts of the United States.

Related plant:
Miss Lemon Abelia

Planting Process

1. For lemon cypress, first step is to find a location that receives full sun or partial shade and has well-drained soil.
   
2. Prepare the planting area by removing any grass, weeds, or other plants.
   
3. loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches (30 cm) using a shovel or garden tiller.
   
4. Mix in a 2- to 4-inch (5-10 cm) layer of compost.
   
5. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the roots ball.
   
6. Place the tree in the hole so that the roots are spread out evenly.
   
7. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently as you go.
   
8. Water the tree deeply immediately after planting.
   
9. Apply a 2- to 3-inch (5-5 cm) layer of mulch around the base of the tree, but do not allow the mulch to touch the trunk.
   
10. Water regularly during the first growing season to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Related plant:
Meyer Lemon Tree

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, lemon cypress prefers well-drained soil, whether it is sandy, loamy or clay. It can also tolerate slightly acidic to alkaline pH levels. If the drainage is poor, the tree's roots will start to rot.

Light condition

Similar to other cypress trees, the lemon cypress requires full sun to partial sun in order to maintain its beautiful color. The tree does best in bright, direct sunlight for at least six hours each day. If you live in an area with hot summers, you may want to provide some afternoon shade for your lemon cypress to protect it from the intense heat.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is most ideal for lemon cypress is between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant does not do well in cold climates and will not survive if the temperature drops below freezing. In hot climates, the lemon cypress will require more water and needs to be protected from the sun.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. They dislike wet or soggy soil, so make sure the drainage is good. Water when the soil is dry to the touch. Allow the top 1-2 inches of the soil to dry out completely before watering again.

The Fertilizer

Discussing fertilizer, this type of plant does well with regular feedings of a water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season. As with most cypresses, the lemon cypress doesn't require a lot of fertilizer and too much can result in yellowing of the foliage. It's best to err on the side of too little rather than too much. This plant is not particular about soil type, as long as it is well-drained. The lemon cypress has a moderate root system and does not require staking.

About light

Pruning your lemon cypress is essential to keeping the plant looking its best. You'll need to remove any dead or damaged leaves and branches, as well as any that are growing in an undesirable direction. You can do this with sharp, sterile pruning shears. Cut at a 45-degree angle just above a node (where the leaf meets the stem). Make sure not to cut too far back, as this could damage the plant.

About Propagating

Propagation is best done by seed, although cuttings can also be used. Sow seed in a good quality seed compost in early spring, covering lightly with vermiculite. Keep the compost moist but not wet and place the seed tray in a propagator or warm place to maintain an optimal temperature of 21-24°C (70-75°F). Alternatively, place the tray inside a clear plastic bag. Seeds should germinate within 3-4 weeks. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into 7.5-10cm (3-4in) pots.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is fast when the conditions are good. The plants prefer full sun and moist, well-drained soil. They are drought tolerant once established. The plants can grow to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are root rot, spider mites, and whiteflies. Root rot is caused by too much water and results in the yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually drop off. Whiteflies are another type of sap-sucking pests that can cause damage to the lemon cypress.

Growing Tips

• Remember to check the drainage of the pot before planting the lemon cypress. If the pot does not have good drainage, the roots will rot.
  
• Place the lemon cypress in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight.
  
• Water the plant regularly, but do not over-water. The soil should be moist, but not soggy.
  
• Fertilize the lemon cypress every few months with a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Prune the plant regularly to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.
  
• The lemon cypress is a slow-growing plant, so be patient.
  
• If the plant becomes too large for the pot, you can transplant it into a larger pot or into the ground.
  
• The lemon cypress is susceptible to mealybugs and other pests. Inspect the plant regularly and treat with an appropriate pesticide if necessary.
  
• The lemon cy

Similar Plants

• Thymus vulgaris L. (wild thyme)
  
• Thuja occidentalis (L.) K.Koch] (western red cedar)
  
• Thuja orientalis L. (oriental cedar)
  
• Tagetes patula L. (safran marigold)
  
• Tagetes erecta L. (African marigold)
  
• Salvia fruticosa Mill. (wild sage)
  
• Salvia officinalis L. (sage)
  
• Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary)
  
• Myrtus communis L. (wild myrtle)
  
• Lavandula angustifolia Mill. (English lavender)

Source:
Cypress Education
Homepage - Cypress College
Lemon | Diseases and Pests, Description, Uses, Propagation