How to Feed Cedar Trees for Healthy Growth All Year

Cedar trees are stunning evergreens that can bring beauty and worth to any landscape. Regardless of whether you have Thuja (arborvitae), Juniperus (juniper), or actual Cedrus cedars, proper nutrition is key to keeping them healthy and encouraging robust growth. This book has all you need to know about feeding cedar trees during the seasons to keep them thriving year-round.

Understanding Cedar Tree Nutritional Needs

Before discussing how to feed cedar trees, it’s important to understand their basic nutritional requirements. Cedar trees generally prefer:

• Slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0)
• Well-draining soil with moderate moisture
• Balanced nutrients with an emphasis on nitrogen for foliage
• Micronutrients like iron and manganese for optimal health

When to Feed Cedar Trees

Timing is crucial when considering what to feed cedar trees and when to do it:

Spring Feeding (March-May)

Spring is the primary growing season for cedars, making it the most important time for fertilization. As new growth emerges, cedars benefit from a nitrogen-rich fertilizer that supports vigorous foliage development.

Summer Maintenance (June-August)

During summer, cedars may need supplemental feeding, especially in poor soil conditions. However, avoid fertilizing during extreme heat or drought conditions.

Fall Preparation (September-October)

A light fall feeding helps cedars prepare for winter dormancy. Focus on potassium and phosphorus to enhance root development and cold hardiness.

Winter Rest (November-February)

Generally, avoid feeding cedar trees during winter when they’re dormant. This allows the trees to rest and reduces the risk of stimulating new growth that could be damaged by frost.

What to Feed Cedar Trees

When determining what to feed cedar trees, consider these options:

Commercial Cedar Fertilizers

Look for specially formulated conifer or evergreen fertilizers with:

• NPK ratio around 12-4-8 or 16-4-8
• Slow-release formulations
• Added micronutrients

Organic Options

If you prefer natural methods for feeding cedar trees, consider:

• Composted manure (aged at least 6 months)
• Fish emulsion
• Cottonseed meal
• Well-rotted compost

Micronutrient Supplements

In areas with mineral-deficient soils, consider:

• Iron supplements for yellowing foliage
• Manganese for overall vigor
• Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) for improved nutrient uptake

How to Feed Cedar Trees: Application Methods

The method you choose for how to feed cedar trees can significantly impact effectiveness:

Granular Fertilizer Application

1. Calculate the feeding zone (from trunk to dripline)
2. Apply granular fertilizer evenly throughout this zone
3. Keep fertilizer 6 inches away from the trunk to prevent burn
4. Water thoroughly after application

Liquid Feeding

1. Mix liquid fertilizer according to package directions
2. Apply to soil around the tree, focusing on the root zone
3. Use during the growing season for quick nutrient uptake

Deep Root Feeding

For established cedars:

1. Create holes 12-18 inches deep around the dripline
2. Space holes 2-3 feet apart in a circle
3. Fill holes with liquid fertilizer solution
4. This method delivers nutrients directly to deep roots

Specialized Cedar Feeding by Type

Different cedar varieties may have slightly different needs when considering how to feed cedar trees:

Thuja (Arborvitae)

• Prefer moderate fertilization
• Benefit from balanced NPK with slightly higher nitrogen
• May yellow if iron-deficient

Juniperus (Juniper)

• Drought-tolerant and often need less fertilization
• Can be sensitive to over-fertilization
• Benefit from slow-release formulations

True Cedars (Cedrus)

• Need consistent nutrition when young
• Become more drought and nutrient-stress tolerant with age
• Benefit from deep root feeding when mature

Common Signs Your Cedar Trees Need Feeding

Watch for these indicators that it’s time to focus on feeding cedar trees:

• Yellowing foliage (chlorosis)
• Slow or stunted growth
• Thinning foliage, especially in inner branches
• Poor recovery from stress or damage
• Reduced winter hardiness

Cedar Tree Feeding Schedule

For optimal results, follow this annual schedule for feeding cedar trees:

Season	When to Apply	What to Apply	Amount
Spring	Early April	Complete fertilizer (higher N)	As directed for tree size
Summer	Mid-June (if needed)	Light balanced feeding	Half spring rate
Fall	Early September	Winterizing formula (higher K)	As directed
Winter	Avoid feeding	–	–

Special Considerations When Feeding Cedar Trees

When planning how to feed cedar trees, keep these important factors in mind:

Newly Planted Cedars

• Wait 2-3 months after planting before first fertilization
• Use half-strength fertilizer for the first year
• Focus on root establishment with phosphorus-rich formulas

Mature Cedars

• May need less frequent feeding
• Benefit from slower-release formulations
• Focus on root zone maintenance

Container-Grown Cedars

• Require more frequent feeding (every 2-3 months during growing season)
• Benefit from liquid fertilizers for consistent nutrient levels
• Need lower concentrations to prevent root burn

Environmental Considerations

Responsible feeding cedar trees includes environmental awareness:

• Avoid fertilizer runoff into waterways
• Use appropriate amounts to prevent groundwater contamination
• Consider slow-release options that minimize leaching

Conclusion

Learning to feed cedar trees and what to give cedar trees during each season is the secret to keeping them healthy and stunning. With proper nutrition at the proper times, your cedars will respond with robust growth, rich foliage, and dramatic longevity. Keep in mind that cedars tend to like a humble feeding schedule – more is not necessarily better when it comes to feeding cedar trees. With regular maintenance and adequate feeding, your cedar trees will be a beautiful addition to your landscape for years to come.