Leyland cypress is now one of the most broadly used plants in commercial and residential landscapes throughout Georgia as a formal hedge, screen, buffer strip, or barrier for winds. It is an elegant, fast growing evergreen tree that has adapted for growth well where it is found, thriving in fruitful, well-drained soils. Once fully grown the Leyland cypresses can grow up to 40 feet, with pointed leaves on flat branches that are dark blue-green when mature and soft and bright green when young.
Because it has a shallow root system, and due to the fact that many times they are planted too close together in poorly drained soils, they are prone to root rot and several debilitating canker diseases. Cankers like seiridium and Botryosphaeria specifically flourish during periods of drought. You should always consider disease management for the Leyland cypress.
Plant the Leyland cypress in tilled and well-drained areas. Perform a soil fertility test, and adjust soils with lime and fertilizer as recommended. Set the tree at or just above the soil level. Avoid environmental and cultural stresses make the plants vulnerable to infections and cankers.
Read more: https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B1229