Caring for Eastern Red Cedar: Tips and Tricks

Eastern Red Cedar is a popular tree native to the eastern United States. It is often used as a decorative tree or for its aromatic wood, but caring for Eastern Red Cedar can be tricky. In this article, we will provide you with tips and tricks to help you care for your Eastern Red Cedar tree.

Understanding Eastern Red Cedar

Before diving into how to care for your Eastern Red Cedar, it's important to understand the tree itself. Eastern Red Cedar, also known as Juniperus Virginiana, is a slow-growing evergreen tree that can reach heights of up to 50 feet. The tree produces blue-green foliage and small cones, which can provide food for wildlife such as birds and squirrels. Eastern Red Cedar can grow in a variety of soil types and is drought-tolerant once established.

Planting Eastern Red Cedar

When planting Eastern Red Cedar, it's important to choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The tree can tolerate some shade, but it will not grow as quickly or as robustly in shaded areas. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and mix in a good quality planting mix or compost. Backfill the hole with the amended soil and water well. Eastern Red Cedar should be planted in the spring or fall when temperatures are cool.

An Eastern Red Cedar tree in the fall.

Watering Eastern Red Cedar

Eastern Red Cedar is drought-tolerant once established, but it still needs regular watering during the first few years after planting. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and adjust based on rainfall. Be careful not to overwater, as Eastern Red Cedar does not tolerate wet feet. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and root rot.

A young Eastern Red Cedar tree with an irrigation drip hose.

Pruning Eastern Red Cedar

Pruning Eastern Red Cedar is not necessary unless you want to shape the tree or remove dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Use sharp pruning shears and make clean cuts at a slight angle just above a healthy lateral branch or bud. Avoid cutting into the main trunk, as this can damage the tree and increase the risk of disease.

Pruning an Eastern Red Cedar tree.

Fertilizing Eastern Red Cedar

Eastern Red Cedar does not require regular fertilization, but you can give it a boost with an application of slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, as overfertilization can burn the roots and damage the tree.

Fertilizing an Eastern Red Cedar tree.

Pest and Disease Control for Eastern Red Cedar

Eastern Red Cedar is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be susceptible to certain issues. Spider mites, bagworms, and cedar-apple rust are common problems for Eastern Red Cedar trees. To prevent these issues, keep the tree healthy with proper watering and fertilization, and prune away any infected branches. If pest or disease problems persist, consult a professional arborist for treatment options.

Common pests of Eastern Red Cedar trees.

Eastern Red Cedar, caring for trees, pruning trees, pest control, disease control, arborist