Horstmann Blue Atlas Cedar Growth Rate, Care, Pruning, Problems

Horstmann" is a blue atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica) cultivar valued for its evergreen leaves, sluggish growth rate, and drought tolerance once mature. This cedar, which grows in USDA plant hardiness zones 6 through 9, has a compact growth habit, attaining a maximum height of approximately 8 to 10 feet and a maximum spread of approximately 5 to 6 feet after ten years of growth. Preparing the planting site appropriately and planting the "Horstmann" blue atlas cedar in the right spot will aid in the tree's speedy establishment and growth.

Horstmann Blue Atlas Cedar is a multi-stemmed open evergreen shrub with a magnificent growth habit that has almost oriental horizontally-tiered branches. Its exquisite texture distinguishes it from other outdoor plants with coarser foliage.

In general, this is a low-maintenance shrub that looks best when not pruned, however, it will tolerate some trimming if necessary. Deer are often uninterested in this plant and will leave it alone in favor of more tasty delights. It does not have any significant drawbacks.

Horstmann Blue Atlas Cedar will reach a height of around 12 feet and a spread of 8 feet at maturity. It tends to fill out to the ground, so it does not necessitate the use of facer plants in front of it. It is also good for planting beneath power lines. Under optimal conditions, it can live for up to 60 years or more. It grows at a sluggish rate, and its lifespan can be as long as 60 years.

To cultivate this shrub, it must be exposed to full sunlight. It is tolerant of both dry and wet growing environments, but will not tolerate stagnant water. It is not picky about the type of soil or the pH. It can withstand some pollution from the city but prefers a more secluded location. When planting in exposed areas or colder microclimates, consider covering the root zone with a heavy layer of mulch in the winter to protect the plant. This is a variant of a species that is not native to North America.

Horstmann Blue Atlas Cedar Growth Rate

Upon reaching maturity after ten years of growth, a mature specimen will stand 6 feet (2 meters) tall and 3 feet (1 meter) wide, with a yearly growth rate of 6 to 8 inches (15 - 20 cm).

Horstmann Blue Atlas Cedar Care

To properly care for this tree, you will need good compost to ensure that the tree receives adequate drainage. This should be placed at least a few inches below the surface of the soil. When a plant is in its early stages, it requires water. It is necessary to apply mulch to the top layer of the plant (Cedrus Atlantica) in order to prevent moisture from drying out too quickly.

Horstmann Blue Atlas Cedar Pruning

This variety is a low-maintenance shrub that looks best when not pruned, however, it will tolerate little trimming if needed. Deer are often uninterested in this plant and will leave it alone in favor of more tasty delights. It doesn't have any substantial drawbacks.

Horstmann Blue Atlas Cedar Problems

This tree is plagued by a fungal disease known as Sirococcus Blight, according to tree History. Check your Cedrus Atlantica needles to see if they are turning pink, then brown, and eventually falling to the ground as a sign of various diseases. There is currently no known remedy for this disease, therefore if you see a problem with your tree, contact the Forestry Department. Aside from that, this tree is devoid of illnesses and pests.