Posted by MEADOW VIEW on February 28, 19100 at 20:49:24:
In Reply to: Leyland Cypress Fertilizer posted by Marsha on February 28, 19100 at 15:00:09:
: I planted a row of 17 Leylands last spring. They were 4-5 feet tall. Could you tell me when is the best time to fertilize them. They all seem to have taken well by now and I want to get them off to a good start this spring.
Could you also tell me what the best type of fertilizer would be. I want them to take off like a rocket this year! :)
Also, I've noticed that their dark tinge is not so dark anymore, except for when it is evening and the sun in not shining on them. In the sun they have a greenish/yellow tint. Is it just the point of the season? Is it normal? I've noticed that all the pine trees in the neighborhood have a yellowish tint to them too, and I'm thinking maybe that's just what these evergreen type trees do - turn a bit yellow in the winter.
I'm in Northern Va., btw - border line of a zone 6 or 7
Thank you,
Marsha
MARSHA: Be careful how much you fertilize this variety, they grow plenty fast and too much nitrogen(the first number in the formula)can cause them to grow very thin and stringy, requiring more pruning to get them to branch and fill out. I would suggest using a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 or something similar, feed now at a low to moderate rate and nothing more until next November.
A feed in November, after the plant has stopped growing, will help the plant maintain good winter color.
Rapid growth can be a detriment if you want nice full plants for screening purposes. MVG Plant Dr.