Care Tips

• Planting Instructions: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery pot, setting the root flare level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Loosen circling roots, backfill with native soil, and water deeply to settle. Space to mature width for natural form.
• Soil Moisture: Keep evenly moist but not waterlogged; do not allow to dry completely in heat. Mulch 2–3 in to conserve moisture and moderate soil temps.
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained loam or sandy loam; tolerates a range of soils. pH slightly acidic to neutral (approx. 6.0–7.5).
• Humidity: Average garden humidity is fine; shelter from hot, drying winds in exposed sites. Performs well in coastal climates with good drainage.
• Pruning Instructions: Minimal. Light tip-prune to shape after spring flush if needed. Do not cut back into old wood without live foliage. Remove dead or damaged twigs anytime.
• Winter Care: Water well before ground freeze. Maintain mulch, and protect from deer. In windy, exposed sites, consider a burlap windbreak to reduce winter burn and snow load on branches.
• Planting Depth: Hole 2–3× width of root ball, same depth; set crown level and avoid burying the stem. Ensure the root ball top sits just above grade on heavy soils.
• Fertilization: Feed lightly in early spring with a slow-release, balanced conifer fertilizer. Avoid excessive nitrogen; not a heavy feeder once established.
• Special Care: For containers, use a high-quality, well-drained potting mix with bark; choose a pot with drainage and upsize every 2–3 years. Monitor for spider mites in drought; keep evenly watered to reduce stress.