How Much Do Leyland Cypress Trees Cost?

Last Updated on September 11, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Leyland Cypress trees are a hugely popular choice for landscapers and homeowners looking to add privacy, beauty, and curb appeal to their properties. But before planting these fast-growing evergreens, it’s important to thoroughly understand the wide range of factors that influence the cost of Leyland Cypress trees.

This comprehensive guide examines Leyland Cypress tree prices in detail. We’ll break down the average costs, look at the many variables that affect pricing, compare prices of different sizes, examine additional expenses, explore the best places to buy, and offer tips for keeping costs low.

How Much Do Leyland Cypress Trees Cost?

Leyland Cypress trees can cost from as low as $5 per sapling to $500 or more for towering mature trees. The average cost can fluctuate:

• Basic range – $25 to $150 per tree
• Affordable range – $15 to $60 per tree
• Expensive range – $100 to $250+ per tree

Leyland Cypress prices are heavily dependent on the tree’s size and maturity level. On average, buyers can expect to pay within these general ranges:

• Small trees (2-4 ft) – $10 to $30 per tree
• Medium trees (5-7 ft) – $50 to $70 per tree
• Large trees (8+ ft) – $100+ per tree

Seedlings and small starter trees are very affordable, while mature Leyland Cypress trees that offer instant privacy and impact can cost over $200 each. Overall, $50 per tree is a reasonable average baseline cost for a medium sized Leyland Cypress.

According to Urban Forest Dweller, Leyland Cypress trees can be purchased for less than $20 each when starting small. However, the total cost can rise significantly if planting a large number of trees for privacy screening, as the cumulative expense can quickly add up.

PlantingTree lists Leyland Cypress trees starting at around $29.99 for smaller sizes. They emphasize the tree’s rapid growth rate, achieving heights of 40 to 60 feet and spreading 15 to 20 feet, making it a popular choice for privacy screens. The site also highlights the adaptability of these trees to various soil types and their drought tolerance.

On Fast Growing Trees, the prices for Leyland Cypress trees start at approximately $39.99 for smaller sizes. They promote the tree’s benefits as a fast-growing privacy option, reaching impressive heights and requiring minimal maintenance. The site also offers discounts for bulk purchases, which can help reduce costs for larger planting projects.

Ty Ty Nursery provides a more detailed pricing structure, with Leyland Cypress trees priced at $24.75 for 1-foot tall trees, $34.75 for 2-3 foot trees, and $59.75 for 3-4 foot trees. They also list 4-5 foot trees at $79.75. This nursery emphasizes the tree’s suitability for screening and windbreaks, highlighting its fast growth and adaptability.

Why Are Leyland Cypress Trees So Popular?

Native to the United Kingdom, Leyland Cypress trees (x Cupressocyparis leylandii) are now extensively grown across the United States, especially in southern states from North Carolina to Texas. These handsome evergreens are prized for their rapid growth rate, often adding 3-5 feet in height per year. Their lush green foliage grows thickly, creating a dense, natural hedge and excellent privacy screen.

Leyland Cypress are extremely low maintenance once established, requiring little pruning or watering. They thrive in full sun and do well in most soil conditions. Their versatility, easy care, and rapid growth make them the ideal choice for home landscaping in many situations. Their popularity also keeps prices relatively affordable compared to other screening trees.

Factors Influencing the Cost

Several factors impact how much you’ll pay for Leyland Cypress trees for your particular landscaping needs:

• Tree Size – The single biggest price determinant. Larger trees are exponentially more expensive.
• Maturity Level – More mature trees provide instant results but cost more upfront.
• Time of Year – Prices are often lower in winter during the off-season.
• Shipping Distance – Local pickup saves money, but delivery fees can add $20 to $200+ depending on location.
• Volume Discounts – Buying in bulk lowers per-tree costs, especially for large projects.
• Convenience – Buying from local nurseries costs more but is easier and provides service.
• Regional Variables – Prices can vary in different parts of the country.

Always factor in all costs, not just the base price per tree. Delivery fees, professional planting, soil preparation, and ongoing care will increase your total investment. But those expenses may be offset by volume discounts when purchasing multiple trees.

You might also like our articles about the cost of a Boxwood Shrub, Olive tree, or Arborvitae.

Cost Breakdown by Tree Size

The main factor that determines the cost of Leyland Cypress trees is size and maturity. Let’s examine how prices typically compare at different sizes:

Small Leyland Cypress Trees (2 – 4 feet)

• Cost per tree – $10 to $30
• Benefits – Very affordable. Allow you to shape hedge as trees mature.
• Drawbacks – Provide no immediate screening. Require 1-2 years growth to fill out.

Starting small is the most budget-friendly option, though it requires patience as the trees reach desired height. Often used when planting a new hedge from scratch.

Medium Leyland Cypress Trees (5 – 7 feet)

• Cost per tree – $50 to $70
• Benefits – Offer immediate impact while remaining cost-effective. Reach desired height faster than saplings.
• Drawbacks – More expensive upfront cost. Still require some shaping as they continue growing.

Mid-size trees provide a nice compromise between cost and instant privacy satisfaction. This is a popular size choice for many homeowners.

Large Leyland Cypress Trees (8+ feet)

• Cost per tree – $100 to $250+
• Benefits – Deliver privacy and screening immediately. Require minimal initial shaping and pruning.
• Drawbacks – Much more expensive per tree. Large trees can be difficult for homeowners to plant without help.

Larger mature Leyland Cypress trees carry the highest price tag but may be warranted for certain projects where immediate results are needed. Generally best left to professional landscapers.

Maturity Level Cost Comparison

• Young saplings – $10 – $25 per tree
• Established trees – $50 – $150 per tree
• Mature trees – $150 – $500+ per tree

Other Cost Factors to Account For

Beyond just the size and maturity of the trees, several other expenses factor into your total cost:

Delivery/Shipping Fees

Having trees delivered or shipped to your home adds to the overall investment. Cost considerations:

• Local delivery fees range from $20 for short distances to $100+ for longer delivery.
• Shipping costs from online sellers can run $50 to $300 depending on tree size and distance.
• Wholesale nursery orders may qualify for discounted or free shipping above certain order minimums.

Always comparison shop delivery and shipping rates between suppliers. Avoid extremely high fees if possible.

Professional Installation/Planting Service

For larger trees, hiring a landscaping company to handle proper planting vastly improves survival rates.

• Professional planting often runs $50-$200 per tree depending on site conditions and other factors.
• Proper digging, soil preparation and planting technique gives trees the best start.
• May be required by city regulations when planting multiple trees.

Soil Preparation and Amendments

Preparing the soil well before planting can maximize growth and health. Common recommendations:

• Incorporate quality topsoil to improve texture and nutrients. $40-$100 per cubic yard.
• Add compost or manure to increase beneficial microbes and organic matter. $30-$75 per cubic yard.
• Mulch around trees helps maintain soil moisture and temperature. $30-$100 for 2-3 cubic yards.

Initial and Follow-up Care/Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance improve the lifespan and performance of Leyland Cypress trees.

• Annual pruning, fertilizing, pest/disease prevention averages $50-$150 per tree.
• Install irrigation for consistent watering during the first 1-2 years.
• Plan for lower ongoing maintenance costs long-term.

Calculating all additional costs provides a more realistic total budget for your project.

Buy These Trees for Less

You can find Leyland Cypress trees for sale through various outlets. Each has pros and cons:

Local Nurseries – Convenient and great customer service. Prepared to offer planting/care advice. More expensive but trees can be inspected.

Online – Competitive pricing and wide selection. Risk of damage during shipping. Ensure seller has good reputation.

Wholesale Nurseries/Tree Farms – Best pricing, especially for bulk orders. May require large minimum orders. Great for landscapers and big projects.

Big Box Stores – Low prices and convenience, but less selection and small sizes. Higher risk of disease/pests.

No matter where you buy, always check trees carefully for signs of disease, damage, or poor health. Select the healthiest specimens.

Getting the Best Deals

Follow these tips to keep your Leyland Cypress costs as low as possible:

• Buy during the off-season – Shop in winter to get best discounts.
• Purchase smaller trees – Start with saplings for the most affordable option.
• Buy multiple trees – Take advantage of bulk pricing and volume discounts.
• Ask about sales/specials – Some nurseries run regular promotions.
• Compare delivery fees – Factor these into total cost from different sellers.
• Plant trees properly – Correct planting and care reduces losses and replacements.

Are They a Good Long-Term Investment?

Despite higher upfront costs, mature Leyland Cypress trees add considerable value and appeal to any landscape. Factors to consider:

• Fast growth = quick return – Leylands provide privacy just 1-2 years after planting.
• Enhance property value – Attractive screening trees boost curb appeal and resale value.
• Environmental benefits – Filter noise/pollution, provide wildlife habitat.
• Minimal maintenance – Extremely low care compared to fences and walls.
• Drought tolerant – Save on watering costs once established.
• Long lifespan – Properly cared for, Leylands live 50+ years.

Over the lifetime of the trees, Leyland Cypress provide excellent return on investment in terms of privacy, security, noise reduction, beauty, and added property value.

Planting Leyland Cypress Trees

To maximize growth rate and health, properly prepare the planting site and care for new Leyland Cypress trees.

Choose an Optimal Planting Spot

• Pick a location with full sunlight – Leylands need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sun daily.
• Evaluate soil drainage – Avoid low, wet areas. Improve drainage before planting if needed.
• Allow ample spacing – Plant trees 5-7 feet apart to prevent overcrowding as they mature.

Plant at the Right Time of Year

• Spring – The ideal planting window is from March to May.
• Fall – September to November is also suitable in most regions.
• Avoid summer heat or winter freezes which cause excess stress.

Dig Proper Planting Holes

• Holes should be 2-3 times wider than the root ball or container.
• Loosen surrounding soil and mix in compost or topsoil to improve drainage.
• Plant at same depth as grown in nursery, with top of root ball level with ground.

Provide Regular Care and Maintenance

• Water thoroughly after planting and as needed for first 1-2 years.
• Install mulch and drip irrigation to maintain optimal moisture.
• Prune lightly in early spring to shape as needed.
• Apply a slow-release fertilizer each spring.
• Monitor for pests and diseases. Treat problems promptly.

Proper planting techniques and follow-up care ensures fast, healthy growth. Consult a professional for large plantings.

Answers to Common Questions

What’s better than Leyland cypress?

While Leyland cypress are excellent screens, some alternatives have advantages:

• Arborvitae offer greater cold hardiness for northern regions.
• Thuja Green Giants are less prone to disease and grow well in wet soils.
• Italian cypress provide a formal, columnar shape.

Ultimately the choice depends on climate, space, and desired aesthetic.

What are the benefits of Leyland cypress trees?

Benefits that make Leyland cypress popular:

• Very fast growth rate, gaining 3-5 feet per year.
• Dense, lush green foliage creates an excellent privacy screen.
• Require minimal care and maintenance once established.
• Tolerate most soil types and do well throughout the southern US.
• Much more affordable than fencing or masonry walls.

Is cypress fast-growing?

Yes, Leyland cypress are some of the fastest growing screening trees available. Under ideal conditions, they can grow up to 5 feet per year. This rapid growth allows them to provide privacy and screening very quickly compared to other trees. Their fast growth rate is one reason why they are widely used for hedges and windbreaks.