Pollination Info for Whipcord Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata 'Whipcord')

Whipcord Western Red Cedar is a dioecious plant, meaning that male and female reproductive organs are located on separate plants. Therefore, cross-pollination is necessary for the plant to produce seed cones.

The male flowers are small and yellow, and the female flowers are small and green. The male plants release pollen in the spring, which is carried by the wind to the female plants. The pollen must reach the stigma of the female flowers for fertilization to occur.

Bees may also play a role in pollination, as they may visit the male flowers for nectar and inadvertently transfer pollen to the female plants.

In areas where there are no male plants nearby, Whipcord Western Red Cedars can be propagated through vegetative methods, such as cuttings, rather than relying on seed production.

Frequently Asked Questions for Whipcord Western Red Cedar ('Thuja plicata 'Whipcord')

What is Whipcord Western Red Cedar?

Whipcord Western Red Cedar is a unique coniferous evergreen tree. It is a cultivar of the Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) and is known for its whip-like, drooping branches that give the tree a unique appearance. It is commonly used for ornamental purposes in landscape design.

How tall does a Whipcord Western Red Cedar grow?

Whipcord Western Red Cedar generally grows to be around 2-3 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide, making it a great option for small gardens or tight spaces. It is a slow-growing tree and will take many years to reach its maximum size.

Where should I plant Whipcord Western Red Cedar?

Whipcord Western Red Cedar should be planted in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and moist. It can tolerate some drought once established, but will perform best with consistent moisture. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.

How do I care for Whipcord Western Red Cedar?

Whipcord Western Red Cedar is low-maintenance and requires little care. It does not need to be pruned and only requires occasional watering during dry spells. It can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer in the spring, but this is not necessary. It has no significant pest or disease issues.

How can I use Whipcord Western Red Cedar in my landscape design?

Whipcord Western Red Cedar is a versatile plant that can be used in many different ways in landscape design. It can be planted as a specimen plant in a small garden or used as a accent plant in a larger landscape. Its unique appearance also makes it a great choice for container planting. It pairs well with other coniferous evergreens, flowering shrubs, and perennials.

Planting & Care for Whipcord Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata 'Whipcord')

Planting

• Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
• Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
• Add compost or other organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and provide nutrients.
• Remove the plant from its container and loosen any tangled roots.
• Place the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
• Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly.
• Add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Care

• Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to become waterlogged.
• Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced granular fertilizer.
• Prune lightly as needed to maintain shape or remove damaged or dead branches. Avoid pruning too heavily or at the wrong time of year.
• Protect from harsh winter winds by wrapping with burlap or other protective material.
• Monitor for pests and diseases, such as spider mites or root rot, and treat as necessary.