Looking for a Privacy hedge or tree to plant in wet soil/land

(Question)

Hi – l planted emerald cedar trees along my fence line and even made a elevated trenchbut they keep dying. I learned this area is always wet due to property elevations and a guess a swale between proiperties. What can i plant here that will give me privacy, grow quick and survive?

(Answer)

Emerald is a variety of Eastern White Cedar, which is also known as Swamp Cedar, since it is found in swampy areas and enjoys moist soil. Here’s a good description.

So before giving up on the existing hedge, I would check carefully to be sure there is another cause of their deterioration. For example, they are subject to infestations of cedar leafminer, as described here. In addition, they may be victims of a wide range of other pests and diseases.

Have a close look at the existing trees with these issues in mind.

If you determine that they are not infested with pests or diseased, and still want to replace them, here’s the advice we gave another inquirer seeking to grow a hedge in waterlogged soil. I’m sure you’ll find something suitable in that list.

April 21, 2024