Q: What fertilizer would you recommend to ensure the health of mature Leyland cypresses? My trees are 60 feet tall and look great. I want to keep them that way!

A: Not much research has been done about fertilizing Leyland cypress in home landscapes. I’m sure any general purpose landscape fertilizer (there are many brand names) would be fine. My rule of thumb is to fertilize when a plant is actively growing. For a young Leyland cypress that could mean feeding in April, June and September. However, your trees are at their mature size and don’t need huge amounts of nutrients. I think they could get by with one feeding in April each year, particularly if you have mulch around them. Follow the label directions on the product you choose.