How Fast Cedars Grow

Cedars add several feet of height each year once established, though young trees need consistent moisture first. If you are wondering how fast cedars grow, the answer depends on the species, soil, and your local climate. Most gardeners are surprised to learn that these trees are not slowpokes at all once their roots take hold.

In this guide, you will get clear growth rates, a timeline for young trees, and tips to push your cedars to their full speed. We will also cover common mistakes that slow them down.

The simple answer is that most true cedars (Cedrus genus) grow between 12 and 24 inches per year after the third year. Some varieties, like the Deodar cedar, can push 36 inches annually in ideal conditions. However, the first two years are always slow because the tree is building roots.

You should also know that “cedar” is a confusing name. Many trees called cedars, like the Eastern Red Cedar or Western Red Cedar, are actually junipers or arborvitaes. Their growth rates are different. We will focus on both groups so you get the full picture.

True Cedars Growth Rates

True cedars are the classic ones from the Mediterranean and the Himalayas. They are majestic, long-lived, and have needles that grow in clusters. Here is what you can expect:

Deodar Cedar (Cedrus deodara): The fastest. Grows 24 to 36 inches per year. Can reach 50 feet tall in 20 years.
Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica): Moderate. Grows 12 to 18 inches per year. Slower in dry clay soil.
Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani): Slow to start. Grows 10 to 15 inches per year once established. Very long-lived.
Blue Atlas Cedar: Similar to the green Atlas, but slightly slower due to less chlorophyll. Expect 12 to 15 inches.

These trees are not for small yards. They need room to spread their branches. If you plant one, give it at least 20 feet of clearance from your house.

False Cedars Growth Rates

The false cedars are the ones you see in hedges and windbreaks. They are faster and more forgiving. Here is the breakdown:

Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana): Grows 12 to 24 inches per year. Very tough and drought-tolerant.
Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata): Fast grower. Can add 24 to 36 inches per year in moist, cool climates.
Northern White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis): Slow to moderate. Grows 6 to 12 inches per year. Good for hedges.
Leyland Cypress (often sold as cedar): Extremely fast. Grows 3 to 4 feet per year. Not a true cedar but often grouped with them.

If you need a privacy screen fast, the Western Red Cedar is your best bet. It tolerates wet feet and grows quickly in the Pacific Northwest.

Growth Timeline From Planting To Maturity

You cannot just plant a cedar and expect it to take off. There is a predictable pattern. Here is what happens year by year:

Year One: The Rooting Phase

Do not expect much top growth in the first year. The tree is working underground. You might see only 2 to 6 inches of new shoot. This is normal. The roots are spreading out to find water and nutrients.

Your job is to keep the soil consistently moist. Do not let it dry out completely, but do not drown the roots either. A 2-inch layer of mulch helps retain moisture and keeps the soil cool.

Year Two: The Transition

In the second year, the root system is established. You will see a growth spurt of 8 to 12 inches. The tree is now ready to focus on vertical growth. You can start reducing your watering frequency, but still check the soil weekly.

If you planted a potted cedar, this is the year it starts to look like a real tree. If you planted a bare-root tree, it might lag one year behind.

Year Three And Beyond: The Fast Phase

From year three onward, the growth rate doubles. A healthy Deodar cedar will now grow 2 to 3 feet per year. The Eastern Red Cedar will add 1 to 2 feet. This is the phase where you see the tree really fill out.

This rapid growth continues for 10 to 15 years. After that, the tree slows down and focuses on girth rather than height. A mature cedar can live for hundreds of years.

Factors That Speed Up Or Slow Down Growth

Genetics matter, but environment matters more. You can have a fast-growing species that crawls because of poor conditions. Here are the key factors:

Sunlight Requirements

Cedars need full sun. That means at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If they are shaded by a building or a larger tree, they will grow thin and slow. Prune back any overhanging branches that block the sun.

Soil Type And Drainage

True cedars hate wet feet. They prefer well-drained, sandy loam soil. If your soil is heavy clay, the roots will struggle to breathe. You can amend the planting hole with compost and grit to improve drainage.

False cedars like the Western Red Cedar are more tolerant of moisture. They actually thrive in damp, acidic soil. Match the tree to your soil type for the best results.

Watering Strategy

Young cedars need deep watering. A shallow sprinkle encourages shallow roots. Instead, water slowly and deeply once a week. Aim for 1 to 2 inches of water per week during the first two years.

Once established, true cedars are drought-tolerant. They prefer to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is a common mistake that leads to root rot and stunted growth.

Fertilizer Use

Do not over-fertilize. A slow-release fertilizer for evergreens in early spring is enough. Too much nitrogen will cause weak, leggy growth that breaks in the wind. If your soil is healthy, you might not need fertilizer at all.

Climate Zone

True cedars prefer mild, dry summers and cool, wet winters. They do well in USDA zones 6 through 9. False cedars are more adaptable. The Eastern Red Cedar can survive in zones 2 through 9. Check your zone before planting.

How To Measure Your Cedar’s Growth Rate

If you want to track your tree’s progress, you can measure it yourself. Here is a simple method:

Use a measuring tape to measure from the ground to the top tip of the tree.
Mark the date and the height on a garden journal.
In the spring, look for the “candle” or new shoot growth at the tips.
Measure the new growth in late summer after it has hardened off.
Subtract last year’s height from this year’s height to get the annual growth rate.

Do this for three years to get an average. That will tell you if your tree is happy or struggling.

Common Mistakes That Slow Down Cedars

Even with the right genetics, you can accidentally stunt your tree. Here are the top mistakes to avoid:

Planting too deep: The root flare should be at the soil surface. Burying the trunk causes rot.
Staking too tightly: Trees need to sway to build strong trunks. Loose staking only for the first year.
Pruning the top: Never cut the central leader. This ruins the shape and slows height growth.
Mulching too heavily: A volcano of mulch traps moisture against the bark. Keep it 2 inches deep and away from the trunk.
Ignoring pests: Bagworms and spider mites can defoliate a cedar. Check the foliage monthly.

If you notice yellowing needles or dieback, act fast. A stressed tree will stop growing entirely until it recovers.

How To Encourage Faster Growth

If your cedar is lagging behind, here are five practical steps to boost its speed:

Test your soil pH. Cedars prefer slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0 to 7.0). Add sulfur if it is too alkaline.
Water deeply once a week. Use a soaker hose to saturate the root zone, not just the surface.
Apply a 2-inch layer of organic mulch. This regulates soil temperature and retains moisture.
Remove competing grass. Grass steals water and nutrients. Create a 3-foot circle of bare soil around the trunk.
Fertilize in early spring. Use a balanced 10-10-10 formula at half the recommended rate.

Be patient. Cedars are marathon runners, not sprinters. The first few years are slow, but the payoff is a massive, beautiful tree that lasts generations.

Growth Rate Comparison Table

Here is a quick reference for the most common types. This will help you decide which one fits your timeline:

Deodar Cedar: 24-36 inches/year. Best for fast results.
Western Red Cedar: 24-36 inches/year. Best for wet climates.
Eastern Red Cedar: 12-24 inches/year. Best for dry, poor soil.
Atlas Cedar: 12-18 inches/year. Best for ornamental value.
Cedar of Lebanon: 10-15 inches/year. Best for legacy planting.

Remember that these rates are for established trees. The first two years will always be slower. Do not judge the tree’s potential until year three.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about cedar growth rates and care.

How Long Does It Take For A Cedar To Reach Full Height?

Most true cedars reach 40 to 60 feet in 30 to 40 years. They are not fully mature until 50 to 80 years. False cedars like the Eastern Red Cedar can reach 40 feet in 25 years.

Can I Grow A Cedar In A Pot To Control Its Size?

You can, but it will not grow as fast. A pot restricts the roots, which limits top growth. You might see only 6 to 10 inches of growth per year. You will also need to repot every 2 to 3 years.

Why Is My Cedar Not Growing At All?

Check for three things: poor drainage, too much shade, or root damage from transplant shock. Also, check if the root ball is girdled. If the roots are circling the pot, they can strangle the tree. Loosen them before planting.

Do Cedars Grow Faster In The Spring Or Summer?

Cedars have two growth spurts. The first is in early spring when the new “candles” emerge. The second is in late summer if there is enough moisture. The spring flush is usually the largest.

Are There Any Dwarf Cedar Varieties For Small Spaces?

Yes. Look for “Feelin’ Blue” Atlas Cedar or “Nana” Deodar Cedar. These grow only 3 to 6 inches per year and stay under 5 feet tall. They are perfect for rock gardens or containers.

In summary, the growth rate of cedars is highly predictable once you understand the species and the conditions. Give them full sun, well-drained soil, and consistent water for the first two years. After that, step back and watch them soar. With a little patience, you will have a towering evergreen that adds structure and beauty to your landscape for decades.