‘Murray’ cypress (X Cupressocyparis leylandii ‘Murray’) is an evergreen, fast growing shrub for large yards. A cultivar of the overplanted Leyland cypress, ‘Murray’ has shown to be more disease and insect resistant, moisture tolerant, and adaptable to many soil types. It also develops a better branch structure that makes ‘Murray’ a good selection for areas with high winds.
‘Murray’ is becoming the top choice for screening out noise, unsightly views, or nosy neighbors. It can increase in height by 3 to 4 feet (1 to a little over 1 m.) per year, making it highly desirable as a quick hedge. When mature, ‘Murray’ cypress trees reach 30 to 40 feet (9-12 m.) with widths ranging from 6 to 10 feet (2 to a little over 2 m.). Hardy in USDA zones 6 through 10, its tolerance to heat and humidity makes growing ‘Murray’ cypress popular in the southeastern United States.
Growing Murray Cypress: Murray Cypress Care Guide
‘Murray’ cypress can be planted in full to part sun in any soil type and will thrive. It also is tolerant of slightly wet sites and suitable as a coastal tree.
When planting as a screening hedge, space the plants 3 feet (1 m.) apart and prune lightly each year to develop a dense branching structure. For a casual hedge, space the plants 6 to 8 feet apart (2 to a little over 2 m.). Fertilize these trees three times a year with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.
Pruning
Prune out dead or diseased wood anytime during the year. In late winter or early spring, lightly prune wayward stems to keep the tree in its characteristic Christmas tree shape. They also can be pruned later in the year up to mid-summer. If rejuvenation pruning is anticipated, trim in early spring before new growth.
Disease and Insect Resistance
‘Murray’ cypress shows resistance to the fungal diseases that plague Leland cypress. The tolerance of heat and humidity prevents the fungal diseases from advancing. With fewer diseases that leave trees susceptible to insects, fewer insect invasions have been recorded.
Although it is relatively disease free, they are sometimes bothered by cankers or needle blight. Cut out any branches afflicted with cankers. Needle blight causes yellowing of the branches and green pustules near the tip of the stems. To combat this disease, spray the tree with a copper fungicide every ten days.
Winter Care
Although drought tolerant once established, if you are experiencing a dry winter, it is best to water your ‘Murray’ cypress twice a month in the absence of rain.
-
How To Make A Bouquet Garni Or Herb Bundle For CookingIf you’re a great cook, you may have made an herb bundle before. If this is a new idea, learn how to add sparkle and interest to your dish with a bouquet garni.
-
‘Coral Charm’ Peony Care For Sublime Semi-Double Peonies With Lush Salmon Pink FlowersPeonies are known for their soft baby pink or magenta tones, but if plushy coral blooms are your thing, here’s our guide to the ultimate ‘Coral Charm’ peony care
-
Which 7 Types of Cypress Are Best to Grow?There are numerous types of cypress trees. From tall, majestic rows that grow throughout Italy to the bright bushy lemon varieties, there’s one that suits your region best.
-
Lemon Cypress: Complete Plant Care And Growing GuideThe easy-growing Lemon Cypress tree offers a bright splash of color, a lovely fragrance and an interesting accent in any garden or yard.
-
Bald Cypress Growing – Planting A Bald Cypress TreeIt's hard to mistake the bald cypress for any other tree. These tall conifers with flared trunk bases are emblematic of the Florida everglades. If you are considering planting a bald cypress tree, you'll want to read up on bald cypress information. This article will help.
-
Lemon Cypress Care: How To Care For Lemon Cypress Outdoors And InsideYou can start growing lemon cypress trees indoors or outside. This article will help get you started in growing lemon cypress trees. Click here to learn more.
-
Cypress Tree Trimming: Information About Cutting Back Cypress TreesRejuvenating a cypress tree means trimming, but you have to be careful how you wield those clippers. Cutting back cypress trees too drastically results in dead wood and unattractive trees. Click this article for more information on pruning cypress trees.
-
Types Of Cypress Trees: Tips For Growing Cypress TreesWhile their native environment is wet, once established, cypress trees grow well on dry land, even with occasional drought. Find growing tips here.
