How to Grow Cedar Tree
Cedrus atlantica
Cedar (Cedrus atlantica) is a large, long-lived specimen conifer for spacious gardens. Plant in full sun in well-drained soil — it is remarkably drought-tolerant once established and dislikes waterlogged ground. Give it room to develop its majestic spreading crown: allow at least 10m spread at maturity. Stake young trees for the first two to three years. Never cut into old bare wood, and never remove the central leader.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Established cedars rarely need feeding. Young trees benefit from a balanced slow-release fertiliser applied in early spring for the first two to three years after planting. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which promote soft growth vulnerable to wind damage.
Watch For
- Honey fungus (Armillaria) — sudden crown dieback, bootlace rhizomorphs in soil
- Cedar aphids — colonies on new growth in spring; usually outgrown by midsummer
- Phytophthora root rot on poorly drained sites
- Adelgid — white woolly tufts on shoots and needles of stressed trees
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun
Cedrus requires full sun for best growth and form. At least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Poor light results in thin, weak growth and loss of the characteristic blue-grey needle colour.
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established
Water regularly for the first two to three seasons while roots establish. Once mature, Cedrus is highly drought-tolerant and needs no supplemental irrigation except in extreme prolonged drought. Never allow waterlogging — excellent drainage is essential.
Fertilizing
Rarely needed
Young trees benefit from a slow-release balanced fertiliser in spring for the first two to three years. Established trees require no feeding on reasonable garden soil. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds.
Pruning
Minimal — never cut into bare wood
Remove dead or damaged branches at any time. Do not cut back into old bare wood as cedars will not regenerate from it. Do not remove the central leader. Formative pruning of young trees in late spring only.
Spacing
10–15 m from other large trees and structures
Cedrus atlantica can spread 10 m or more at maturity. Site well away from buildings, drains, and other large trees. Not suitable for small gardens.
