Caring for your new western red cedar
When we plant Western Red Cedars (Thuja plicata) for you, they’re typically about 1.75 meters tall and 3–4 years old — young enough to adapt well to their new home, but still vulnerable to stress in the first few years. Trees at this age and size can easily die back or fail to thrive if not properly cared for, especially through dry summers or compacted soil.
Because most of our planting is done to meet city permit replacement requirements, your deposit refund depends on tree survival. Keeping your cedar healthy not only protects your investment — it also ensures your property has a strong, beautiful, and long-lived tree that can thrive for generations.
Quick Facts About Western Red Cedars
Native Range: Pacific Northwest — from California to Alaska, thriving in the wet coastal forests of British Columbia.
Lifespan: Can live 800–1,000 years in ideal conditions.
Growth Rate: Fast-growing; typically 30–60 cm (1–2 ft) per year when well-watered and mulched.
Mature Height: Up to 50 m (160 ft) tall in the wild, though urban specimens often reach 10–20 m.
Root System: Wide and shallow; sensitive to soil compaction and drought.
Ecological Role: Provides food and shelter for birds and wildlife, and is highly valued for its natural resistance to decay.
This guide will help you keep your tree happy, healthy, and thriving — ensuring it meets permit requirements, earns your city deposit refund, and grows into a signature feature of your landscape for decades to come.
1. Watering
First year: Water deeply 2–3 times per week (depending on weather). Ensure soil remains consistently moist but not saturated.
After establishment: Water weekly during hot or dry periods.
Tip: A slow, deep soak is better than frequent light watering.
2. Mulching
Maintain a 5–8 cm layer of mulch year-round to regulate temperature and retain moisture.
Replenish annually.
3. Fertilizing
Avoid fertilizing in the first year.
In following years, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10‑10‑10) in early spring.
4. Pruning
Lightly prune only dead or broken branches.
Avoid heavy pruning in the first 2 years.
5. Monitoring Tree Health
Watch for the following warning signs:
Browning or dieback: Could indicate drought stress or root rot.
Wilting despite moist soil: May signal poor drainage or root damage.
Pests: Check for bagworms, aphids, or spider mites.
Fungal growth at base: May indicate root rot due to overwatering.
6. Protection
Avoid piling soil, mulch, or gravel against the trunk.
Keep grass trimmers and lawnmowers away from the bark.
Protect from winter salt spray or snow plow debris if near roadways.
7. Long-Term Growth
Western red cedars can live for centuries and grow rapidly (30–60 cm/year under good conditions).
Deep roots form over time — avoid trenching or soil compaction near the root zone.
Potential Dangers to Avoid
Overwatering: Can lead to root rot and suffocation. Ensure well-drained soil and avoid standing water.
Underwatering: Causes browning and dieback. Maintain consistent moisture, especially in the first 2 years.
Soil compaction: Prevents roots from breathing or spreading. Avoid walking, parking, or stacking materials near the root zone.
High heat or reflection: Scorches foliage. Provide afternoon shade or maintain mulch around the base.
Animal damage: Deer and rodents may browse young trees. Use tree guards or repellents.
Salt or chemical exposure: Kills roots or burns foliage. Avoid de-icing salts and herbicides near the tree’s base.
