Cryptomeria trees are known as Sugi in Japan and are called the Japanese Cedar or Japanese Redwood in English. As ornamentals, they make stunning additions to landscapes and xeriscapes. These coniferous evergreens belong to the Cypress family and are popular throughout Southwest BC. Pictured above is a sapling Japanese cedar tree, one of many varieties that are easy to grow and add lifelong beauty to backyard and commercial settings. Some cryptomerias grow up to 60 meters (200 feet) in height but the most commonly planted dwarf varieties reach maturity at around 6 meters (20 feet). The Japanese Cedar is well known (and loved) in Japan as the national tree, where it is commonly used in forest plantations. The famous “Jomon Sugi” is a large cryptomeria tree located at the Yakushima UNESCO World Heritage Site in Japan where it is one of the largest and oldest old-growth cryptomerias on the island and thousands of years old. Their fragrant wood is cultivated and manufactured for its decorative grain and used in furniture and interior panelling.
Cryptomeria Trees as a Landscaping Choice
Cryptomeria trees can grow quickly, over a meter a year, which makes them popular plantings for new or renovated yards where a mature and settled environment is needed. We find several varieties grow well in privacy hedges and windbreaks. They are relatively hardy, tolerating moderate droughts and are resistant to most diseases affecting feathery conifers. Prolonged drought however, will damage young branches and cause needle necrosis, while overwatering will cause root rot, so it’s important to monitor watering and practice proper mulching. Cryptomerias may also be affected by mites or moth larvae, which feed on a young tree’s needles. New saplings just brought home from the nursery need to be well cared for in the initial stages of growth. They are hardier after they are established, but still need basic care and monitoring for insect pests and the possibility of seasonal branch damage. Cryptomeria trees need full sun to partial shade for healthy growth. Plant your saplings in the early spring or late fall so their root systems establish properly. Fortunately, they are adaptable to many different types of soil from sandy clay to loam, but be sure your new plantings are not submerged in standing water, which will cause root rot. Slow release fertilizers with low ratios will help your trees grow healthier, but be careful not to overuse them. Mulching protects the soil layer around new trees, and aids in conserving water.
Professional Landscaping Services in Kamloops, Kelowna, Vernon and Salmon Arm
For landscaping and tree planting (including Cryptomeria trees) services, call the team at Pine Valley Tree Services and Landscaping. Our certified arborist consulting and landscaping design and installations continue to beautify the back yards of Southwestern BC. We always offer free estimates, seniors’ discounts and repeat-customer discounts to show our appreciation to local communities. Our business has grown exponentially over the years and we now offer experienced tree and landscaping services in three main locations – Kamloops, Kelowna, Vernon and Salmon Arm and within a two-hour radius of these areas. We look forward to serving you.
Further reading: Tree & Hedge Planting