Deodar Cedar
Cedrus deodara · Himalayan CedarUSDA | Grow Zone
7-9Outdoors all year in zones 7 to 9. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant.
- Light
- Full sun, 6-8 hours
- Water
- Deeply but infrequently
- Humidity
- Moderate, adaptable
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 40-70 ft tall
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
Deodar Cedar, also known as Himalayan Cedar, is a majestic evergreen tree native to the western Himalayas. Valued for its stunning appearance and durability, it is often grown for landscaping and timber. Its graceful branches and aromatic wood make it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers.
Ask Vesper about Deodar Cedar
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 40-70 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 120-360 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Deodar Cedar prefers well-drained soil and should be watered deeply but infrequently.
During the growing season, water every 2-3 weeks, allowing the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. In winter, reduce watering to once a month. Signs of over-watering include yellowing needles and root rot, while under-watering may cause needle drop and browning tips.
Light
This tree thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Ideal placement is in an open area where it can receive ample light, as it can tolerate partial shade but may grow slower and become leggy. It can tolerate light shade but prefers bright conditions for optimal growth.
Soil
Deodar Cedar prefers sandy loam or well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0.
Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, so consider using a potting mix designed for conifers or adding perlite to improve drainage.
Humidity
This tree prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable.
To increase humidity, mist the foliage occasionally or place a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include browning needle tips and needle drop.
Temperature
Deodar Cedar thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and can tolerate cold down to -10°F (-23°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 7-9. While it can withstand heat, prolonged exposure to temperatures above 90°F (32°C) may stress the tree.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or similar, applying in early spring before new growth begins.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season and reduce frequency in fall. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing of older needles and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Deodar Cedar in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can stress the tree. Deadheading is not necessary for this species.
Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for established Deodar Cedars, but if grown in a pot, consider repotting every 2-3 years or when roots outgrow the container.
Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. When repotting, choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter and refresh the soil.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings.
For seeds, collect mature cones in late summer, extract seeds, and stratify them in a moist medium for 30 days before planting in spring. For cuttings, take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in a well-draining mix. Keep them humid until roots develop.
When it's unhappy
Yellowing needles
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture levels and adjust watering accordingly. Fertilize if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Browning needle tips
Why it happens
Browning tips may indicate low humidity or under-watering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity around the tree and ensure consistent watering.
Root rot
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and reduce watering frequency. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant from the pot, trim away affected roots, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Pest infestations
Why it happens
Common pests include aphids and spider mites, often due to stress or environmental factors.
How to fix it
Inspect regularly, and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light can cause the tree to grow leggy.
How to fix it
Move the tree to a sunnier location to encourage bushier growth.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, apply a balanced fertilizer to promote new growth. Check for any winter damage and prune as necessary.
Summer
During summer, ensure consistent watering, especially in hot weather. Monitor for pests and increase humidity if needed.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as temperatures drop. Prepare the tree for winter by mulching around the base to protect roots from freezing.
Winter
In winter, water sparingly and protect the tree from harsh winds. Avoid fertilizing during this dormant period.
Toxicity & Safety
Deodar Cedar is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities of any plant material can cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
Why are my Deodar Cedar's needles turning yellow?
Yellowing needles on a Deodar Cedar can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule, and consider fertilizing if necessary.
How often should I water my Deodar Cedar?
Water your Deodar Cedar every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, allowing the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. In winter, reduce watering to once a month.
What type of soil is best for Deodar Cedar?
Deodar Cedar prefers sandy loam or well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Can Deodar Cedar tolerate shade?
While Deodar Cedar prefers full sun, it can tolerate partial shade. However, growth may be slower and the tree may become leggy in low light conditions.
When is the best time to prune Deodar Cedar?
The best time to prune Deodar Cedar is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This helps shape the tree and remove any dead or damaged branches.
How can I propagate Deodar Cedar?
You can propagate Deodar Cedar through seeds or semi-hardwood cuttings. For seeds, stratify them for 30 days before planting. For cuttings, use rooting hormone and keep them humid until roots develop.
What are the signs of root rot in Deodar Cedar?
Signs of root rot include yellowing needles, stunted growth, and a foul smell from the soil. If you suspect root rot, check the roots and adjust watering practices.
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