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.
As a gardening enthusiast, I know how frustrating it can be to find slaters infesting your beloved Arizona cypress tree These small, grayish-brown crustaceans can cause significant damage if left unchecked. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through how to identify, control, and prevent slater infestations on Arizona cypress trees.
What Are Slaters?
Slaters, also known as woodlice or pill bugs, are not insects but crustaceans. They have segmented, rigid exoskeletons and can roll up into a tight ball when disturbed, which gives rise to their alternate name “pill bugs”. Slaters thrive in damp, dark environments and feed on decaying organic matter.
These pesky invaders are commonly found congregating at the base of trees or hiding under loose bark. They use their tiny mandibles to chew on plant sap, foliage, and tender bark. An infestation can stunt growth, cause dieback, and even kill younger trees if left uncontrolled.
Identifying Slaters on Arizona Cypress Trees
Carefully inspect the base of your Arizona cypress, especially where the soil line meets the bark Look for
- Clusters of small gray/brown bugs near soil level
- Curled up “balls” that unroll if prodded
- Damage to lower branches and bark from mandible chewing
- Presence of frass (bug waste) and decaying plant matter
Early identification is key to effective treatment. You may also see slaters on fence posts or garden beds nearby. Their presence indicates suitable damp conditions.
How to Get Rid of Slaters Naturally
When dealing with slaters, I always try gentle, non-toxic control methods first. Here are some effective natural remedies:
Remove Debris and Improve Drainage
Eliminate any mulch, dead leaves, rotting wood, or other debris resting against the tree trunk. Improve drainage around the roots if the soil is compacted or boggy. Slaters need moisture and damp hiding spots.
Introduce Predators
Natural predators like centipedes, ground beetles, and birds will feed on slaters. Creating a balanced garden ecosystem allows nature to take its course.
Apply Diatomaceous Earth
This natural powder dehydrates slaters on contact while being safe for people and pets. Apply a light coating around the tree trunk and reapply after rain.
Increase Sunlight and Air Flow
Trim back any branches or vegetation touching the trunk to allow more light and airflow. This drying action makes conditions less favorable for slaters.
Using Chemical Pesticides on Arizona Cypress Trees
If natural methods prove ineffective, pesticide use may be warranted in severe slater infestations. Always exercise extreme caution with chemicals:
- Consult an arborist to identify EPA-approved products for cypress trees.
- Follow all label instructions carefully regarding dosage and application.
- Avoid applying pesticides directly onto foliage, buds, and green bark.
- Spot treat only infested areas instead of blanketing the entire tree.
- Take precautions against herbicide drift onto desired plants.
Repeated pesticide use can damage beneficial insect populations while creating chemical-resistant superbugs. Consider it a last resort for heavy slater infestations threatening the life of young trees.
Preventing Future Slater Infestations
Once the invasion is under control, adopting some simple preventive measures can deter recurrence:
- Inspect regularly for early detection of pests.
- Maintain 2-3 inches of woodchip mulch around the tree, leaving the trunk exposed.
- Ensure adequate drainage and amend clay soils if needed.
- Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep rooting.
- Fertilize if needed to promote vigorous growth.
- Clear fallen debris and prune dead branches promptly.
Keeping your Arizona cypress healthy and your garden ecosystem in balance is the best defense. Be vigilant for signs of slaters and take prompt action at the first sighting.
Water
While the tree has low water needs of 10 to 12 inches of water annually, a monthly deep watering encourages deep rooting and helps the tree thrive.
Temperature and Humidity
The tree is winter-hardy in USDA zones 7-9. It is well adapted to the hot and dry conditions in its native habitats in the American Southwest and Mexico. In areas of high humidity, the Arizona cypress is more prone to diseases.
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FAQ
How do you get rid of fungus on cypress trees?
When to fertilize Arizona Cypress trees?
Can you trim Arizona Cypress?
How do you care for a cypress tree in Arizona?
Here are the main care requirements for growing Arizona cypress: Plant it in a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Give it at least 1 inch of water per month, preferably more, and water deeply. Avoid planting it in a humid climate. Do not fertilize the tree. Prune minimally in the late winter to remove dead wood.
Which cypress tree is drought-resistant?
Of these varieties, the Carolina Sapphire Arizona Cypress is the most drought-resistant. Now that you know more about the Arizona Cypress tree, let’s find out what you can do for planting and caring for this evergreen. When planting, place in an area where it can receive full sunlight, or between 6 to 8 hours per day.
How to keep cypress trees from rotting?
This will help hold moisture within it as well as control weeds, which compete with cypress trees for sunlight, nutrients, water, space etc. However, ensure that you keep away mulch from trunk by few inches in order to prevent rotting process.
Is Arizona cypress a Xeriscape?
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.