CUPRESSOCYPARIS leylandii 'Gold Rider'

Family: Cupressaceae

Description: Fast growing conifer with a conical habit. Foliage is bright yellow, and it holds this colour through the year

Uses: Topiary

Height/Spread: Existing specimens should be trimmed once or twice a year to maintain their shape, vigorous species may require more

Soil Requirements: Suits most soils. Well drained, not waterlogged. If pot grown the compost will need to be refreshed every 2 to 3 years. Mulch with bark or organic matter if the plant is not surrounded by ornamental gravel

Pruning: Trim in August with topiary shears or hedge-cutters in early or late summer to keep specimen in shape. Suckers and unwanted branches can also be removed from the stems of standards

Special Requirements: Fertiliser such as Growmore can be applied once a year in the spring if desired, to help maintain the plant's vigour and appearance. May cause skin allergy

Additional Interest: Topiary can suffer from Pests & Diseases. Look out for any tell-tale signs such as damaged leaves, adult moths, caterpillars, sooty moulds etc., and treat appropriately