Care Guide for Southern Red Cedar

PLANTING:

• Choose a location with well-draining soil.
• Dig a hole twice the width and depth of the root ball.
• Place the tree in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
• Fill the hole with soil and gently press down to eliminate air pockets.
• Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

SOIL:

• Southern Red Cedar Trees are easily grown in a wide range of soils, including clay, alkaline and compacted soils.
• Grows well in well-draining soils with a pH between 6 and 7.
• Avoid heavy clay or wet soils as this can lead to root rot.

MULCH:

• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, but avoid piling the mulch directly against the trunk.
• Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

LIGHT:

• Full sun to partial shade, but prefers full sun for optimal growth.
• Avoid planting in an area with dense shade as this can lead to weak growth and disease.

WATER:

• Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep and strong root system, increase frequency during extremely hot days.
• In established trees, water only during extended dry spells.

• You can reduce frequency of watering once the tree is established.

FERTILIZE:

• Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.
• Avoid excessive fertilizer as this can lead to weak growth and disease.

PRUNING:

• Prune in the winter while the tree is dormant.
• Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to maintain a healthy structure.
• Avoid pruning large branches as this can result in stubs that are prone to disease and decay.