Why is my Leyland cypress turning brown? Leyland Cypress branches often turn brown due to an infiltration of three types of fungi: Seiridium, Botryosphaeria (Bot), and Cercospora. These fungi enter the tree during the summer months when the heat enlarges the tree’s stomata (pores on the leaf), allowing the fungi to invade.
How to Treat Leyland Cypress Turning Brown
Pruning Dead and Dying Branches
The best way to remedy browning Leyland Cypress branches is to prune back the affected areas. Use a pole pruner disinfected with a solution of six parts water and one part bleach to prevent further spread of the fungi.
Mulching and Watering
Spreading 2 to 3 inches of mulch around the tree, extending all the way to the outer tips of the branches, helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Additionally, ensure the tree stays well-watered during periods of drought, as Leyland Cypress trees are particularly sensitive to dry conditions.
Why Leyland Cypress Struggles in Georgia
Every year, we receive numerous calls from homeowners wondering why their Leyland Cypress trees are turning brown. The truth is, Leyland Cypress trees are not well-suited for Georgia’s climate. Instead, we recommend planting Arborvitae Green Giants, which grow at a similar rate but are far more resilient to environmental stress.
Climate Challenges for Leyland Cypress in Atlanta
Originally from the United Kingdom, Leyland Cypress trees are hybrids, meaning they are not naturally adapted to Georgia’s hot summers, cold winters, and irregular rainfall. Their survival here is much like trying to transplant an organ into a body with a different blood type—rejection is inevitable.
In Atlanta, extreme heat causes the tree’s stomata to open, allowing fungi to enter, while cold winters and sporadic rainfall further weaken the tree. These trees require consistent moisture, making them vulnerable during droughts.
Common Planting Mistakes
Planting Too Close Together
A major reason Leyland Cypress trees struggle is overcrowding. When planted too close together, they compete for sunlight, causing branches to weaken and die. As a result, the tree wastes energy producing growth that it later has to shut down. This poor return on investment reduces overall tree health, making it more susceptible to disease.
Root Stimulation for Healthier Leyland Cypress
One way to support Leyland Cypress trees in stressful conditions is by using a root stimulation treatment. Root stimulators encourage strong root development while slowing excessive canopy growth, reducing the likelihood of fungal infections. Strengthening the tree’s root system also helps it better resist future attacks.
📞 Call (770) 758-8590 to schedule a root stimulation service for your Leyland Cypress.
Pruning Tools for Leyland Cypress
If you plan to prune dead and dying Leyland Cypress branches yourself, we recommend using the Jameson pole pruner. This tool is durable, sharp, and professional-grade, making it well worth the investment.
Professional Tree Pruning Services
We’re happy to help if needed. Pruning is labor-intensive and can be costly, but if you’d rather have professionals take care of it, we’d be more than happy to serve you.
