Winter is a tough time to be blogging about gardening.  I'm really searching for interesting subjects, cause I love writing everyday. But it's not that easy.  So keep checking back, even though I may skip a day or two now and then.  Right now I'm thinking about evergreens, those symbols of everlasting life.

 

Leyland Cypress is a hybrid of two Pacific Coast species, Monterey Cypress and Alaska Cedar.  Its botanical name is expressed:  X Cupressocyparis leylandii.  It was introduced to North Carolina in the mid 1970s, and became an instant hit with nurserymen and homeowners.  They still enjoy huge popularity, especially as living fences.

 

Once established, Leyland Cypress can grow three feet a year, making them great for privacy screening.  It is suggested that when planting them for hedges, you plant them 3 - 5 feet apart.  Since they can grow up to 50 feet tall and 12 feet wide, it's best to plant them where they can spread out.

 

There are many examples of Leyland Cypress in our area.  Some are specimen trees, standing alone; and some are beautiful hedges.  Best to plant Leylands in full sun, and 10 feet off the road.  They are great trees when given the conditions and space they need to grow.

 

 

HAPPY GARDENING!!!