Overview of Libocedrus Plumosa
Libocedrus plumosa, commonly referred to as mountain cedar or incense cedar, is a coniferous evergreen tree native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. This tree is found in various locations throughout California, Oregon, and Washington, usually at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level.
Description of Appearance
Mountain cedar can grow up to 60 feet tall and 20 feet wide, with a slender conical shape that tapers to a pointed top. The bark is thin, brownish-gray in color, and ridged with stringy fibrous strips. The leaves are arranged in flat sprays and are a blue-green color with a glossy appearance. The cones of the mountain cedar are small, oval-shaped, and typically no larger than a centimeter in length.
Common Names
Mountain cedar is often referred to as incense cedar because the wood has a pleasant aroma when burned. The tree is also known as California incense cedar, Oregon cedar, white cedar, and post cedar.
Uses
The mountain cedar tree is highly valued for its durable, decay-resistant wood, which is easily worked and has a distinctive fragrance and reddish-brown color. Historically, mountain cedar was used by Native American tribes for various purposes, including building homes, making tools, and crafting decorative items. Today, the tree is still widely used to make furniture, paneling, and fencing. Its wood is also used for guitar soundboards. The essential oils extracted from the wood and foliage are widely used in aromatherapy and to make perfumes, soaps, and incense.
Light Requirements
The Libocedrus plumosa, commonly referred to as Port Orford cedar, thrives in well-lit areas with some shade. They can tolerate full sun provided they have enough water, but they are more likely to suffer from dehydration and other stressors.
Temperature Requirements
These plants do best in regions with a Mediterranean climate, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C in summer and around 10°C in winter. Port Orford cedars are sensitive to frost and will not do well in areas with long and harsh winters that go below -5°C.
Soil Requirements
The soil where a Port Orford cedar is grown should be able to provide enough moisture for the tree without getting waterlogged. The soil should have good drainage and be rich enough in nutrients, especially if grown in containers, which tend to deplete nutrients much faster. These trees do not do well in soils with a high pH level and require soil with a pH level ranging from 4.5 to 6.5.
Cultivation Methods:
Libocedrus plumosa, also referred to as the mountain cedar, requires a well-draining and nutrient-rich soil mixture for optimal growth. Choose a pot with a drainage hole and fill it with a mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite for better soil drainage. Ensure that the plant receives a sufficient amount of indirect sunlight every day and maintain the temperature between 60-80°F.
Watering Needs:
Mountain cedar requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged and provide water when the top inch of soil feels dry. During the winter months, reduce the watering frequency as the plant becomes dormant.
Fertilization:
Fertilize Libocedrus plumosa during the growing season (spring and summer) with a slow-release fertilizer. Alternatively, a water-soluble fertilizer mixed with water can be applied to the soil every two weeks. However, avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning:
Prune the mountain cedar annually to maintain the desired shape and size. Use a sterilized pruning tool to make the cuts, and remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches throughout the year. Cut the tips of the branches to encourage bushier growth and maintain the shape. Avoid cutting the branches too close to the main stem as it can damage the plant.
Propagation of Libocedrus plumosa
Propagating Libocedrus plumosa can be done through several methods such as seed propagation, softwood cuttings, and layering.
Seed Propagation
This is the most common method of propagating Libocedrus plumosa. The seeds should be harvested from cones in the fall, then cleaned, and sown in a well-draining soil mix. The soil surface should be kept moist, and seedlings will emerge in around three weeks.
Softwood Cuttings
This method of propagation involves taking stem cuttings from the plant in early summer. The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long and dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and under high humidity and indirect sunlight until they root.
Layering
This propagation method involves bending a low, flexible branch of the plant towards the ground and covering a section of it with soil. When the branch produces roots, it can be separated from the parent plant and potted. Layering works best during spring or fall when the soil is moist and warm.
Disease Management
Libocedrus plumosa, commonly known as Monterey cypress, is susceptible to a few diseases that can adversely affect its health and reduce its aesthetic value. One such disease is cypress canker, which is caused by the fungus Seiridium cardinale. This disease can cause branch dieback, cankers, and ultimately lead to the death of the tree. To manage cypress canker, it is crucial to prune out the infected branches and destroy them. Fungicides can be used to protect the tree, but they should be applied preventively before the disease infects the tree.
Another disease that affects Monterey cypress is Phytophthora root rot, caused by the fungus-like organism Phytophthora cinnamomi. This disease causes root rot, which can lead to wilting, stunted growth, and eventually death. To manage Phytophthora root rot, it is essential to avoid waterlogging and improve soil drainage. Fungicide treatments can also be used in severe cases.
Pest Management
Monterey cypress can also be affected by a few pests that can cause significant damage to the tree. One such pest is the cypress tip moth larvae, which feed on the new growth of the tree, causing dieback and stunted growth. To manage cypress tip moth, it is essential to remove and destroy any infested twigs and branches. Pesticides can also be used, but they should be applied before the larvae have a chance to burrow into the tree.
The Monterey cypress also attracts spider mites, which can cause bronzing and defoliation of the tree. To manage spider mites, it is essential to apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the tree's foliage. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also provide natural control of spider mites.
