Cedar Tree

A majestic evergreen with graceful drooping branch tips and a stately pyramidal form that becomes broadly spreading with age. Deodar cedars are more heat-tolerant than most conifers and thrive in Mediterranean and mild temperate climates. They need well-drained soil and cannot tolerate wet feet, which causes root rot and rapid decline. The aromatic wood is naturally resistant to decay and insects, which is why cedar has been prized for building for thousands of years.

Collect cedar cones in fall when they begin to disintegrate on the tree. True cedar cones shatter, so bag them before they fully open. Stratify seeds for 30 days in moist sand in the refrigerator. Sow a quarter inch deep in well-drained seed mix. Germination takes 3 to 6 weeks. Seedlings are slow-growing initially. Named cultivars are propagated by grafting onto seedling rootstock.

True cedars (Cedrus) are majestic specimen trees native to mountainous regions of the Mediterranean, Himalayas, and North Africa. Plant in full sun with excellent drainage — cedars are extremely drought-tolerant once established but will not survive waterlogged soil. Space 30 to 40 feet from structures to accommodate their massive mature spread.

Water deeply but infrequently during the first two years. Once established, cedars rarely need supplemental irrigation except in extended drought. They are relatively pest-free and require minimal pruning — remove dead or damaged branches only. The gracefully drooping branch tips of deodar cedar are its signature ornamental feature.

Drought-tolerant Mediterranean plants like lavender, rosemary, and santolina complement cedars perfectly. Ornamental grasses and drought-tolerant groundcovers thrive in the dry conditions under cedar canopies. Spring bulbs like daffodils and crocus naturalize well. Avoid moisture-loving plants that would need irrigation incompatible with cedar's preference for dry conditions.

True cedars thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. They tolerate poor, rocky, and sandy soils but will not survive heavy clay or waterlogged conditions. Minimal fertilization needed — apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer to young trees in spring. Established cedars need no supplemental feeding. Avoid disturbing the shallow feeder roots with cultivation.

Ideal Temperature

Hardiness Zone Compatibility

Cedar wood is harvested for its aromatic, naturally rot-resistant timber used in decking, fencing, and closet lining. Cedar chips and shavings are used as natural moth repellent. Eastern red cedar berries are used in some cuisines but true cedars (Cedrus) do not produce edible parts. Cedar boughs are popular for holiday wreaths and decorations — harvest selectively from lower branches.

Storage & Preservation

Cedar wood shavings retain their aromatic properties for years when stored in sealed bags. Refresh the scent by lightly sanding the surface. Cedar boughs for decorating last 2 to 3 weeks when kept cool and misted occasionally. Cedar essential oil is distilled from wood chips and stored in dark glass bottles.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Root rot from poor drainage is the number one killer of cedars. They are poorly adapted to humid southeastern climates with heavy clay soils. Branch breakage from heavy snow and ice can damage the ornamental form. Some cedars are marginally hardy and may suffer tip damage in severe winters at the edge of their range.

Growing Tips

1. Plant cedar trees in full sun with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They tolerate light afternoon shade but become thin and leggy in heavily shaded locations.
2. Ensure excellent soil drainage, as true cedars are highly susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. Amend heavy clay soils with coarse sand and organic matter before planting.
3. Space cedar trees at least 10 to 15 meters from buildings and other large trees to accommodate their mature spread, which can reach 8 to 12 meters in diameter.
4. Water newly planted cedars deeply once per week for the first two growing seasons. Once established, they are remarkably drought tolerant and rarely need supplemental irrigation.
5. Avoid heavy pruning or topping, which destroys the natural form and can lead to decay. Remove only dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and never cut the central leader.
6. Protect young trees from deer browsing with wire cages or repellent sprays during the first three to five years until the bark toughens and the canopy lifts above browse height.
7. Apply an acidic to neutral pH mulch such as pine bark or wood chips to maintain the slightly acidic soil conditions that cedars prefer, ideally between pH 5.5 and 7.0.
8. Do not apply excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which promotes weak succulent growth susceptible to pests and diseases. One application of balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring is sufficient.
9. When transplanting container-grown cedars, carefully untangle any circling roots at the bottom of the root ball to prevent girdling as the tree matures.
10. In regions with heavy wet snowfall, gently brush snow from branches of young cedars to prevent limb breakage. Mature trees develop sufficient branch strength to handle normal snow loads.