07-04-2003, 10:32 PM
|
|
|
Leland cypresses too tall!!!
lid wrote:
First, sorry if I capitalized this word incorrectly.
My property in Fairfax County, Virginia is lined with Leland
Cypresses, providing an excellent block. This was one of the buying
points for the house when we bought five years ago. The problem now
is that these trees have grown to 40 feet in height. This causes
several concerns, not least of which that they might fall onto
something or someone. I cringe when I hear that 50 mile and hour
gusts are coming to town!
I've gotten several opinions on this, all of which differ:
-A friend told me that he believed we could leave them alone. This I
don't believe, given that one or two are already starting to lean
funny.
-One tree guy told me that they would die if we trimmed any more then
the top 1/5 off.
-Another tree guy suggested we trim them in half (and he wanted 3400
dollars to do so).
I've researched on the web, but can't seem to find a consistent
opinion there either. So I've come here for advise on this.
Opinions?
Also, some of the leaves (if thats what they are called) have begun to
brown and die. Is this a sign of a sick tree? Is there something I
can do about this?
Topping a single leader conifer is never a good idea. It deforms the
growth habit of the tree, opens it up to invasion of insects and disease
problems and shortens the lifespan. Young Leylands can be hedged, but this
is an ongoing (read, constant) process that must be started well before
they reach anywhere close to their current height and it too will result
in a not long-lived hedge. If the trees are well-planted, healthy and
properly established, there should no more risk to them from winds than
there would be to any other tall conifer. 80'+ Doug firs and western red
cedars are the norm here and withstand ferocious windstorms. If you have
sufficient space to accommodate these trees, then leave them be. They will
be far healthier for it in the long run and much more able to stand up to
what Mother Nature tosses at them.
Some browning of foliage is a natural occurrence, specially after a hard
winter. If it persists, have a tree expert or your local extension office
diagnose the specific problem and recommend treatment. Diagnosing plant
problems via the internet is about as effective as diagnosing your own
health problems in this manner.
pam - gardengal
|