Slender Hinoki Cypress for Sale - Buying & Growing Guide

Planting and Care

by John Haryasz | Horticulture Writer and Landscape Designer – last update on May 2, 2022

Planting instructions

The more sunlight that reaches your planting area, the better your slender hinoki cypress tree will perform. Once you find a full sun area, dig a hole that is as deep as the root ball is tall and at least twice as wide as the root ball. Although these trees are on the smaller side, they can reach a considerable height of 12 feet, which is why you should account for plenty of open vertical growing space when choosing a planting location.

Watering and nutrients

A slender hinoki cypress tree that has just been planted or is experiencing unseasonably hot weather should receive water on about a weekly basis. Once these trees show a few years of continued growth, their water needs will decline. Generally, if you notice the first several inches of the soil have become dry, it is wise to add water. Supply a well-balanced organic fertilizer to the soil in the early spring each year to support healthy growth in the following growing season.

Pollination

Both the flowers and fruits of the slender hinoki cypress tree are so insignificant that few ever grow these plants with those features in mind. Both the male and female flowers are just a few centimeters long and bloom in the spring, around March and April. Typically, these plants rely on wind pollination for reproduction and eventually develop tiny cones later in the season that are also just a few centimeters long. As such, you won’t need to worry about pollination in order for this plant to showcase its best features.

Pruning

Although slender hinoki cypress trees take on a pleasing form of their own accord, many gardeners choose to prune them to shape as well. When pruning this tree, be sure not to cut past the newer growth. Like many evergreens, these plants will not resprout from old wood, meaning that taking off too much could lead to permanent bare patches. Late summer is often a good time to prune these plants, but you can get away with pruning during the winter months as well.

Pests, diseases, and animals

Both pests and diseases can cause issues for a slender hinoki cypress tree. Within the first groups, juniper scale insects and bagworms are two of the most common pests to arrive. However, you can control these problems by applying herbicides or picking off the bugs by hand. Regarding disease and other issues, tip blight and leaf scorch can both occur as well. The latter issue is often the result of too much direct sun exposure or excessively dry conditions.

Achieving maximum results

The primary benefit of growing a slender hinoki cypress tree is that it won’t take up too much space, allowing you to incorporate it into relatively tight planting areas. While this compact size is a benefit, it also has drawbacks. For instance, if you wish to use this plant for privacy, you’ll likely need to grow it with several other plants, as the slender hinoki cypress tree alone does not have a spread large enough to block significant areas. These plants may also need a bit of structural support just after planting in the form of a stake or pole.

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Customer Reviews

Anonymous

Verified Buyer September 2, 2020 at 8:42pm

small little guy

Came in great shape. Doing well straight out of the box. Excited to see him get big.

Anonymous

Verified Buyer May 27, 2020 at 4:51pm

Good recommendation

Arrived in great condition although it was considerably smaller than I anticipated. Hopefully it will grow the 12” per year as stated.