Leyland Cypress Blight? - Ask Extension
I have 23 eight year old Leyland Cypress trees lining the back of my yard that act as a visible barrier to a shopping center across the adjacent road....
Knowledgebase
Leyland Cypress Blight? #448692
Asked April 20, 2018, 3:13 PM EDT
I have 23 eight year old Leyland Cypress trees lining the back of my yard that act as a visible barrier to a shopping center across the adjacent road.
I just noticed that the bottom most part of the trees are looking distressed and turning "tan." I have attached photos. Any suggestions to save these trees would be most appreciated.
Prince George's County Maryland
Expert Response
This type of dieback on the interior of Leyland cypresses is, unfortunately, quite common. In addition, many Leyland cypress trees are showing signs of winter damage now. This recent article from our plant pathologist explains this issue and also some of the common diseases that cause dieback. https://marylandgrows.umd.edu/2018/04/11/why-is-leyland-cypress-turning-brown-winter-took-its-toll/ In larger, older Leyland cypresses, the shading of the interior branches also contributes to dieback, as the interior branches do not receive enough sunlight.
Wait until you see signs of new growth on the healthy portions of the tree. If the cold weather did not injure the branches, new growth will emerge and brown needles will drop off naturally. Any severely damaged branches then should be pruned above where green color is still visible. Do not cut into old wood that does not have foliage (it will not regrow).
Keep the trees well-watered during dry periods. A layer of mulch -- no more than 2"-3" deep and kept 6" inches away from the base of the trunk -- will help to retain moisture.
ckc
Wait until you see signs of new growth on the healthy portions of the tree. If the cold weather did not injure the branches, new growth will emerge and brown needles will drop off naturally. Any severely damaged branches then should be pruned above where green color is still visible. Do not cut into old wood that does not have foliage (it will not regrow).
Keep the trees well-watered during dry periods. A layer of mulch -- no more than 2"-3" deep and kept 6" inches away from the base of the trunk -- will help to retain moisture.
ckc
