Growing Leyland Cypress

meLeyland Cypress is a hybrid between the Monterey Cypress and the Alskan Cedar. Leyland Cypress is one of the few confiers that can successfully grow in the deep South. Hardy in USDA Zones: 5b-10. When growing anywhere in Zone 5, it must be planted in a protected location. Leyland Cypress will survive without any winter damage to -10°F. Winter damage occurs with temps colder than that, and ultimately death for pronged time. Zone 5 gardeners have had success growing these tree in sheltered locations. These trees have endured temps down to -20°F, but only survive becuaee they are protected for winter winds. Any exposure to wind, or prolonged exposure to temps colder than -10°F will kill the tree. My personal favorite cultivar is the 'Gold Rider' Leyland Cypress. It has deep golden yellow foliage that persisits all year. It has branches the branch outwards gracefully from the rest of tree, the gold color makes this even more striking to the eye! Leyland Cypress can grow in most soils, and isn't picky on certain pH. One disadvantage is that it struggles in drought. It has only minor drought tolerance once established. So in any extreme drought, it is best to irrigate your trees. Leyland Cypress is a popular Christmas tree in the deep South, parts of the southwest, and Hawaii due to being one of the few conifers to grow in a sub-tropical climate. Mostly grown for privacy screens.