A well-maintained cedar hedge from day one will develop strong roots and ensure healthy, long-lasting growth. Please follow the guidelines below carefully to maximize the survival and performance of your cedars.
Watering (The Most Important Step)
First Watering - Planting Day
On the day of planting, water each cedar by hand for approximately 30 seconds.
This first watering is critical because it:
- Moistens all the soil around the roots
- Removes air pockets
- Ensures proper contact between the soil and the root ball
This step is essential for a strong start.
Regular Watering - From Planting Until Freeze-Up
- Minimum: Once per week, from planting until the ground freezes
- Water only if there has been little or no rainfall
- During heat waves: Increase to twice per week
Recommended Method
- Use the irrigation hose provided
- Let the water run for about 3 hours per watering
- The goal is slow, deep watering directly to the roots
Adjustments Based on Soil Type
Sandy Soil
- Drains water quickly
- Recommended watering: Twice per week, even without extreme heat
Clay (Heavy) Soil
- Retains water longer
- Make sure cedars are never sitting in standing water
- Too much water can be more harmful than not enough
Stability After Planting
- It is normal for cedars to move slightly during the first week
- You may gently straighten them and lightly tamp the soil around the base with your foot
- With proper watering and root development, the cedars will stabilize naturally
Pruning
First Year: No Pruning
- Cedars must focus their energy on root development
Second Year: One Pruning
- Light pruning to encourage density
- Best period: June to mid-September
- Trim only the new, light-green growth
- Do not cut the top until the desired height is reached
Fertilization
- At planting, we apply only a root stimulator fertilizer
- This promotes strong root development
- Cedars focus on rooting before top growth
Mid-Summer
- An additional fertilizer application may be beneficial
- Avoid over-fertilizing
- Follow manufacturer instructions carefully
- Use a fertilizer specifically made for cedars (available at garden centers or Canadian Tire)
Important
Do not fertilize in the fall, as this may cause fragile growth before winter.
Preparing for Winter
Before the First Freeze
- Perform one final deep watering, especially if fall has been dry
- Remove dead branches and fallen leaves at the base of the hedge
- No covering is required
A well-watered, well-rooted cedar hedge will handle winter conditions without issues.
Quick Care Summary
- 30 seconds of hand watering per cedar on planting day
- Minimum 1 watering per week until freeze-up
- Heat wave: 2 waterings per week
- Sandy soil: 2 waterings per week
- Clay soil: No standing water
- No pruning during the first year
- One pruning during the second year
- Root stimulator fertilizer at planting only
- Optional fertilizer mid-summer (no excess)
By following these recommendations, you will ensure a dense, healthy, and long-lasting cedar hedge.