The Arizona cypress (Cupressus arizonica) is an evergreen conifer that is native to the southwestern region of North America. This tree is an excellent choice for inclusion in a xeriscape and other desert landscaping because it has low water needs once the root system has had a chance to spread and entrench itself. With its deep roots, Arizona cypress serves well as a windbreak and for erosion control. It can also be grown as a cut or a living Christmas tree. The tree grows at a moderate to fast pace, adding 1 to 2 feet per year and topping out between 40 and 50 feet.
The tiny leaves of an Arizona cypress tree look like scales and come in different shades of green including gray-green and blue-green. Older trees have a rough bark that scales off to show an inner bark with changing color from tan to plum to red.
Arizona cypress trees are stunning evergreen conifers native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico With their pyramidal shape and soft, feathery blue-green foliage, they make a striking addition to any landscape While Arizona cypresses are typically grown in the ground, they can also thrive in containers given proper care. Growing these trees in pots allows you to position them in prime spots to show off their beauty.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to successfully grow healthy Arizona cypresses in pots
Choosing the Right Pot
When growing Arizona cypresses in containers, selecting an appropriate pot is crucial. Here are some tips:
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Size – Select a pot that is large enough to accommodate the tree’s root system, at least 24-36 inches wide. However, very large pots that dwarf the tree’s size can cause problems.
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Drainage – Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes in the bottom to prevent waterlogging. Elevating the pot can improve drainage.
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Material – Use a sturdy material like ceramic, concrete or plastic. Avoid thin plastic pots that can easily blow over.
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Weight – Pick a heavy pot that can support the tree’s weight and prevent toppling over. Add ballast if needed.
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Insulation – In cold climates, choose a pot made of clay, concrete or wood to insulate roots from temperature extremes.
The Right Soil Mix
Arizona cypresses need a well-draining soil that retains some moisture. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0-7.5. Here is an ideal potting mix recipe:
- 1 part potting soil
- 1 part perlite or pumice for drainage
- 1 part peat moss to retain moisture
- Optional: compost or worm castings for nutrients
Avoid regular garden soil in pots, as it compacts and retains too much water.
Sun and Temperature Conditions
Arizona cypresses thrive in full sun locations with 6 hours or more of direct sunlight daily. Rotate the pot occasionally to prevent one-sided growth.
These trees tolerate summer heat very well but appreciate some afternoon shade in extremely hot climates over 100°F. They can handle cold winters down to 5°F once established. Move pots to a sheltered location if colder temperatures are expected.
Watering Needs
Arizona cypresses are drought-tolerant but need regular irrigation in pots. Water whenever the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry. Water deeply until excess drains from the bottom of the pot. Avoid shallow watering which encourages weak surface roots.
Carefully monitor soil moisture in hot weather and water more frequently. Container plants dry out faster than in-ground trees. Tip: insert a moisture meter probe into the soil to check needs.
Fertilizer and Nutrients
Apply a slow-release granular fertilizer for evergreens in early spring, following package directions. Avoid over-fertilizing which causes rapid, weak growth.
If plants show signs of nutrient deficiencies like yellowing leaves, perform a soil test to determine specific needs. Then you can amend accordingly.
Repotting Requirements
Check container plants yearly for crowded, circling roots. Slide the root ball out and prune any problem roots before repotting in fresh soil mix.
Move the cypress into a slightly larger pot, only 1-2 inches bigger in diameter. Excessively large pots can damage root systems. Discard any old, spent soil and refresh with new potting mix.
Pruning and Maintenance
Remove dead branches as needed to improve appearance and prevent disease. In spring you can do light trimming to shape the pyramidal form. Avoid cutting leader branches that compromise the central trunk. Wipe blades with alcohol between cuts to prevent spreading issues.
Check weekly for common cypress pests like spider mites, bagworms or scale insects. Treat any infestations promptly to maintain plant health. Pick off any spent cones or debris around the base.
Overwintering Tips
Arizona cypresses are quite cold hardy but container plants need some extra protection in winter. Move pots close together on a sheltered, south-facing spot. Cover the container rim with insulating material like bark mulch.
On extra cold nights below 25°F, drape weather-resistant fabric over plants for added insulation. Avoid plastic tarps that can cause moisture buildup. Remove coverings during the day to allow light and air circulation.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellowing foliage – This can indicate overwatering. Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Insufficient drainage can also cause yellow leaves.
Leaf browning – Underwatering causes foliage browning on branch tips. Increase watering frequency.
Few cones – Low sunlight or over-fertilizing with nitrogen causes reduced cone production. Move to a sunnier location and use less fertilizer.
Weak growth – Repot if roots are crowded or root bound. Also prune back the leader to encourage fuller branching.
Insects – Hose down foliage and treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap sprays for common pests. Avoid toxic pesticides.
Diseases – Improve air circulation and promptly remove diseased plant parts. Disinfect tools after each cut. Consider fungicides for serious issues.
Getting Started with Your Potted Arizona Cypress
With the right care, Arizona cypress trees can thrive for years in containers. Follow this guide and soon you’ll have a beautiful focal point on your patio or deck. Monitor moisture, nutrients and pests closely. Repot as needed to keep roots healthy. Shelter during extreme weather.
Most importantly, situate your pot where you can admire the striking silhouette of this architectural tree. The soft, feathery blue-green foliage looks stunning when backlit by the sun. Have fun picking just the right spot to show off your container-grown Arizona cypress!
How to Grow Arizona Cypress From Seed
It is possible to propagate Arizona cypress from seed but the process requires some effort and lots of patience. Also, keep in mind that seeds from cultivars won’t produce trees true to the parent.
- Cut this years brown cones from the tree and place them in a warm, dry, shaded area. Be sure they are protected from squirrels and other seed eaters.
- Allow the cones to dry out until they “open” and their seeds begin to drop out.
- Sprinkle seeds in a single layer in the bottom of a container, cover with water, and soak for 24 hours.
- Wrap the soaked seeds in moist paper towels and seal them in a plastic bag. Refrigerate the seeds for 30 days for stratification.
- After a month of refrigeration, plant the seeds in small nursery pots with a soilless potting mix. Press one seed about 1/4 inch deep in each pot and cover with a thin layer of packed potting mix.
- Water pots thoroughly, keeping them moist but not soggy, in a location that receives indirect light and a temperature around 72 degrees F.
- Germination should occur one to two months after planting. Keep the seedlings in a greenhouse for the first winter, then transfer them into the ground the following spring.
Propagating Arizona Cypress
Arizona cypress can be propagated from cuttings. Heres how its done:
- Using sharp pruners, cut a 4- to 6-inch green stem just below a node.
- Remove the bottom few leaves (needles).
- Dip the stem in water then in rooting hormone.
- Fill a 4-inch container with moist potting mix. Slide the cutting about 2 inches into the soil.
- Place the pot in a warm location but out of direct sunlight. Keep it moist but not soggy.
- After the cutting has rooted (test by gently tugging on it), transplant it into a larger pot. For the best chance of survival, wait until the seedling has developed a strong root system before planting it in the landscape.
Lemon Cypress Indoor Care Guide! // Garden Answer
FAQ
How to care for cypress trees in pots?
What size pot for a cypress tree?
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Height (Including pot):
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90-100cm
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150-175cm
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Nursery Potsize (Diameter / Height):
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10 Litre / ø26cm
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18 Litre / ø33cm
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Decorative Pot Required (Opening / Internal Height):
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28cm+
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35cm+
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Can potted cypress survive winter?
What is the best soil for Arizona cypress?
How do you plant a cypress tree in a pot?
Tips for planting Arizona Cypress in containers include selecting a pot that is at least twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes at the bottom. Water your potted tree regularly but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Is Arizona cypress a good plant?
Arizona Cypress, a native plant of Arizona, is a beautiful evergreen tree that has become increasingly popular in landscaping and gardening. With its striking blue-gray foliage and dense growth pattern, it can be an excellent addition to any garden or landscape. However, as with any plant, proper care is essential for optimal growth and health.
Do Arizona cypress trees need another plant to reproduce?
This cypress tree does not need another plant to reproduce, since it blooms with cones and sets seeds all on its own. It can be cultivated using seeds or tree cuttings. While Arizona Cypress trees can be planted together, it’s not necessary in order to pollinate. Keep in mind that it takes 2 years for one reproductive cycle.
How do you plant a cypress tree in Arizona?
Loosening the soil is an integral part of preparing the ground for planting. The roots of your arizona cypress need to penetrate deeply into the soil for adequate nutrient absorption. Using a spade or tiller, loosen the soil to at least 12 inches deep. This process allows water and air to reach the roots easily, thus promoting its growth.