How Fast Do Hicks Yews Grow? A Complete Guide

PLANT CARE & PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

Pruning: Hicks Yew tolerates heavy pruning well. Pruning can be done in late winter to early spring before new growth begins. This will help maintain its shape and remove any dead or unhealthy growth. Feeding: A slow-release, all-purpose fertilizer applied to this plant in early spring can help it grow better and make its dark green, lush leaves look better. Winter Protection: While cold-hardy, Hicks Yew may benefit from a windbreak in particularly exposed locations. Mulching around the base can also provide added winter protection.

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS:

Choose a location with well-drained soil and sufficient sunlight. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and of similar depth. Take the Hicks Yew out of its pot and gently loosen the root ball before putting it in the hole. Fill the hole with soil, tamping down as you go to avoid air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly after planting. If you want, you can put a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base to help keep the soil moist and even out the temperature.

Hicks Yew thrives in USDA Zones 4-7, which covers a wide range of climates. This cold-hardy shrub is especially useful in northern gardens where choices may be limited. It can also handle heat well enough to do well in Zone 7, making it a strong and flexible choice for a range of climates.

Hicks Yew is a popular evergreen shrub known for its dense, upright growth habit and compact form. When mature, Hicks Yew typically reaches a height of 10 to 12 feet with a similar spread. But in the best growing conditions, it can sometimes get a little taller, reaching 15 feet or more over the course of several decades. Here are some important facts about the Hicks Yew’s size and growth pattern: Height: The Hicks Yew’s mature height can change depending on places it grows, the weather, and how it is pruned. Most of the time, it grows in a dense, upright columnar shape, with branches going from the bottom to the top of the bush. It grows to about 10 to 15 feet tall, which makes it a good choice for the landscape as a hedge, screen, or showpiece plant. Spread: Hicks Yew has a more narrow spread, typically ranging from 3 to 4 feet at maturity. The thick leaves and branching structure give the tree a full, round shape that gives great coverage and privacy when planted in groups or as a hedge. Growth Rate: Compared to other landscape plants, Hicks Yew grows very slowly. In ideal conditions, it grows at a rate of 6 to 12 inches per year. It grows slowly and steadily, which makes it long-lasting and durable in the garden. This makes it a low-maintenance choice for many landscapes. Cutting back: Hicks Yew can be shaped and kept in check by cutting it back regularly, especially when it is used as a hedge or screen. But pruning should be done carefully so that the shrub doesn’t get too stressed out and keeps its natural shape and look. Overall, Hicks Yew is valued for its compact size, dense foliage, and versatility in the landscape. If you take good care of it, it can live for many years and add beauty and interest to gardens, parks, and home landscaping all year long.

Hicks Yew is known for its relatively slow growth rate compared to other landscape plants. Under ideal growing conditions, the Hicks Yew usually grows at a rate of about 6 to 12 inches per year. However, growth rates can vary depending on factors such as climate, soil quality, sunlight exposure, and pruning practices. The rate of growth of Hicks Yew can also be affected by the following: Climate: Hicks Yew does best in mild climates and is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 7. It’s possible for the shrub to grow a little faster in places with mild temperatures and enough rain than in places with harsher climates. Soil Quality: Well-drained, fertile soil with good moisture retention supports healthy growth in Hicks Yew. Amending the soil with organic matter and ensuring proper drainage can promote optimal growth and development. Sunlight: The Hicks Yew can grow in a variety of light conditions, from partial shade to full sun. However, it may grow more slowly in areas with lots of shade or low light compared to areas with lots of sunlight. Pruning: Hicks Yew shrubs can be shaped and kept in check by regular pruning. However, growth may slow down temporarily as the plant shifts its energy to new growth. Pruning practices should be conducted judiciously to avoid excessive stress on the shrub. Watering and Fertilization: Providing adequate water and nutrients can encourage healthier growth in Hicks Yew. To keep things in balance, though, it’s important to remember that too much fertilizer or water can cause leaves to grow faster than roots. Overall, Hicks Yew is liked for its dense, compact growth and low upkeep needs, which makes it a great choice for hedges, foundation plantings, and mixed borders. Although it may not be the fastest-growing shrub in the yard, its slow and steady growth helps it last longer and be more durable in the garden.

Where to plant a Hicks Yew depends on a number of things, including where it will get the most sunlight, the soil’s condition, the amount of space you have, and your plans for the landscape. Here are some things to think about when choosing where to plant your Hicks Yew: Light Conditions: This plant does well in a range of light conditions, from partial shade to full sun. When choosing where to plant, pick a spot that gets some sun or some shade, especially in places where the sun is hot and intense. However, it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates or northern regions. Soil Quality: Hicks Yew prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Don’t plant in soil that is too wet or doesn’t drain well; it can cause root rot and other problems related to water. If necessary, amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Space Availability: Consider the mature size of Hicks Yew when choosing a planting location. The height of these shrubs can reach 10 to 12 feet, and their spread can be 3 to 4 feet. Make sure the shrubs have enough room to grow and spread without crowding other plants or buildings. Landscape Design: Hicks Yew is flexible and can be used in many different ways in the garden, such as as a hedge, a foundation plant, a specimen plant, or a mixed border. You can put Hicks Yew along the edges of your property to make a privacy screen or hedge, or you can use it as a foundation plant for buildings or other structures. It also works well as a focal point or accent plant in the landscape. Climate: The Hicks Yew can survive in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 7, which means it can grow in areas with cold winters and mild summers. Make sure the place where you’re planting is out of the way of strong winds and extreme temperatures, especially if you live in a place where the weather is bad. Maintenance Accessibility: When choosing a place to plant your Hicks Yew, think about how easy it will be to do maintenance tasks like pruning, watering, and fertilizing. It is easier to take care of shrubs and keep them looking the way you want them to if you plant them near paths or walkways. By thinking about these things and picking the right spot to plant Hicks Yew, you can make sure it does well and adds to your landscape with its dense, evergreen leaves and flexible growth pattern. Regular care and maintenance will help keep the shrubs healthy and vibrant for years to come.

When planting Hicks Yew, it’s important to leave enough space between each bush to make sure it grows properly, gets enough air flow, and looks good as it gets older. To make sure your Hicks Yew shrubs are spaced correctly, follow these rules: When planting in a hedge or mass planting, leave Hicks Yew shrubs about 3 to 4 feet apart. This distance between plants lets the shrubs grow and fill out over time while still giving each plant some space. Hedge or Screen: Plant Hicks Yew shrubs about 2 to 3 feet apart for a dense hedge or screen. This closer spacing encourages the shrubs to grow together, creating a solid barrier or privacy screen. If you want to use Hicks Yew as a foundation plant along the side of a building or structure, leave 4 to 6 feet between each bush. This spacing allows for adequate airflow and prevents overcrowding against the building. For accent plantings or single specimens, Hicks Yew shrubs should be spaced out based on their full size, which is usually between 4 and 6 feet. This spacing allows each shrub to develop its natural form and showcase its foliage and structure. Consider Mature Size: Keep in mind the mature size of Hicks Yew shrubs when determining spacing. Even though they grow slowly, shrubs can get as tall as 10 to 12 feet and wide as 2 to 4 feet when they are fully grown. Providing adequate spacing ensures that the shrubs have room to reach their full size without overcrowding. Planting Layout: Before planting, consider the desired layout and arrangement of Hicks Yew shrubs in your landscape. For a natural look, arrange the shrubs in a staggered or alternating pattern. To make the design more interesting, leave some gentle curves or differences in the distance between the plants. By planting Hicks Yew shrubs at the right distance apart, you can encourage healthy growth, make sure air flows well, and get the look you want in your landscape design. Regular care, like pruning and shaping, will help the shrubs stay at the right spacing and look as they get older.

Hicks Yew is a versatile evergreen shrub known for its adaptability to various climate conditions. However, it thrives best in temperate climates with moderate temperatures and consistent moisture. Here are the weather conditions that are best for Hicks Yew: Temperature: Hicks Yew likes moderate temperatures and can handle both cold winters and warm summers. USDA hardiness zones 4 through 7 are good for it. In those zones, winter temperatures range from -34°F to 10°F and summer temperatures range from 0°F to 100°F. In regions with extreme heat or cold, provide some protection from harsh environmental conditions. Sunlight: Hicks Yew performs well in partial shade to full sun conditions. It can handle full sun, especially in cooler places, but it likes some shade in hot, sunny places to keep from getting stressed out and burned. Hicks Yew should be planted in a spot with filtered shade or dappled sunlight, especially in places with a lot of direct sunlight or high temperatures. Moisture: Although Hicks Yew is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. Adequate moisture is essential for healthy growth and foliage retention, especially during the establishment period. Avoid waterlogged or poorly drained soil, as it can lead to root rot and other moisture-related issues. Humidity: Hicks Yew can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels, from dry to moderately humid conditions. But in places with a lot of humidity, make sure there is enough air flow around the shrub to keep it healthy and stop fungal diseases. Wind Protection: Provide some protection from strong winds, especially in regions prone to gusty conditions. Wind can cause desiccation and damage to the foliage, particularly during winter months. Plant Hicks Yew in a sheltered location or provide windbreaks to minimize exposure to strong winds. Overall, the Hicks Yew can grow well in a wide range of climates and environments as long as it is properly cared for and maintained. You can make sure your Hicks Yew shrubs stay healthy and strong by planting them in the right place, giving them enough water, and keeping them away from harsh weather.

Yes, Hicks Yew does produce berries, which are technically called arils. But it’s important to know that even though Hicks Yew is dioecious, which means it has separate male and female plants, the majority of cultivated varieties are male and don’t make berries. In landscaping, Male Hicks Yew plants are usually chosen because they don’t make the fleshy red berries with poisonous seeds. The female Hicks Yew’s berries look nice, but you should stay away from them because they are very poisonous if eaten. You would need to plant both male and female Hicks Yews if you want them to bear fruit. This will make sure that the trees are properly pollinated and produce fruit. However, it is important to be careful and think about safety, especially if there are pets or children in the area where the Yew is planted.

For Yews like the Hicks Yew, selecting the right fertilizer can help support healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Here are some suggestions for the best types of fertilizer: Slow-Release Fertilizer: Choose a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that is made especially for evergreen shrubs like Yews. Slow-release fertilizers give plants a steady supply of nutrients over a long time. This lowers the risk of over-fertilization and nutrient loss. Granular Fertilizer: Granular fertilizers are convenient and easy to apply around the base of the Yew shrub. Look for granular fertilizer that has a balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) ratio, like 10-10-10 or 12-12-12. This type of fertilizer gives plants the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Organic Fertilizer: Consider using organic fertilizers derived from natural sources, such as compost, aged manure, or fish emulsion. Organic fertilizers make the soil better, encourage microbial activity, and make it easier for plants to take in nutrients. This makes Yew shrubs healthier and more resistant to damage. Acidic Fertilizer: Yews prefer slightly acidic soil conditions. Choose a fertilizer with an acidic formulation designed for acid-loving plants, or one specifically formulated for evergreens. These fertilizers help maintain soil pH levels conducive to optimal nutrient uptake and growth. Seasonal Use: Yews should be fertilized in early spring, before new growth starts, or late fall, when the growing season is over. Avoid fertilizing during periods of drought or extreme heat to prevent stress to the shrub. Follow Instructions: Always follow the manufacturers instructions regarding the application rate and frequency of fertilization. It’s important to follow the directions on the fertilizer package because too much fertilizer can cause nutrient imbalances, root burn, and other problems. Soil Testing: You might want to do a soil test to find out how much nitrogen is in the soil and what its pH level is around your Yew shrubs. Testing the soil can help you pick the right fertilizer and make any other changes that are needed to make the soil more fertile. You can give your Yew shrubs, including Hicks Yew, the nutrients they need for health, growth, and vitality by choosing the right fertilizer and applying it correctly. Regular fertilization, combined with proper watering and care, can help ensure that your Yews thrive in your landscape.

How often you water your Hicks Yew depends on a number of things, such as the type of soil, the weather, and the plant’s growth stage. Here are some general rules to help you figure out how often to water your Hicks Yew: Established Plants: Once Hicks Yew has been established, it can handle short periods of dry soil. However, regular watering is still necessary, especially during hot, dry weather. Soil Moisture: Stick your finger into the ground near the base of the shrub to check the soil moisture often. If the top few inches of soil feel dry to the touch, its time to water. Avoid watering if the soil feels moist, as overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. Seasonal Variation: Adjust the frequency of watering based on seasonal weather conditions. It may be less necessary to water your plants in the spring and fall, when it is cooler and rains more often. You might need to water more often in the summer, when it’s hotter and doesn’t rain as much. Watering Depth: When you water, you should aim to wet the soil at least 6 to 8 inches deep. This will help the roots grow deeply. Water slowly and deeply to ensure that the moisture penetrates the soil and reaches the root zone. Putting down a layer of organic mulch around the base of the Hicks Yew shrub can help keep the soil moist, keep the soil at the right temperature, and stop weeds from growing. Keep a layer of mulch about 2 to 3 inches thick, but keep it a few inches away from the trunk to avoid problems caused by water. Conditions of Drought: If there is a long-lasting drought or extreme heat, you may need to water your Hicks Yew plants more often to keep them from getting stressed out and dehydrated. Watch out for signs of drought stress, like leaves that are wilting or tips that are turning brown, and water as needed. Container Plants: If you’re growing Hicks Yew in pots, make sure you check the soil moisture level often because plants in pots may dry out faster than plants planted in the ground. Water container-grown shrubs when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. You can make sure your Hicks Yew gets the right amount of water throughout the growing season by keeping an eye on the soil’s moisture levels and changing how often you water it based on what you find.

There are several things that can cause Hicks Yew to turn brown, which could mean that the plant is stressed or has health problems. Here are some common reasons why the leaves on your Hicks Yew might be turning brown: Too much or too little watering can both make the leaves turn brown. If the soil stays wet for a long time, the roots can suffocate and rot, which turns the leaves brown. Conversely, drought stress from insufficient watering can also cause browning of the foliage. Ensure that the soil is moist but well-drained, and adjust watering practices accordingly. Environmental Stress: Hicks Yew is sensitive to environmental stressors such as extreme temperatures, strong winds, and air pollution. Exposure to harsh environmental conditions can cause browning of the foliage. Provide protection from intense sunlight, cold winds, and other environmental stressors to help prevent browning. Nutrient Deficiency: Hicks Yew leaves can turn brown if they don’t get enough essential nutrients like nitrogen, iron, or magnesium. Check the soil to see if it lacks any nutrients, and if it does, add a balanced fertilizer or targeted nutrient supplements to fix the problem. Pests and Diseases: Spider mites, scale insects, and fungal diseases are some of the pests and diseases that can make Hicks Yew leaves turn brown. Check the plant often for signs of pests or diseases, and get rid of any infestations right away with the right insecticides or fungicides. Transplant Shock: If recently transplanted, Hicks Yew may experience transplant shock, resulting in browning of the foliage. Provide extra care and attention to newly transplanted shrubs, including adequate water and protection from stressors. Pruning Damage: Improper pruning techniques or excessive pruning can damage the foliage and lead to browning. Avoid pruning Hicks Yew during periods of active growth, and use sharp, clean tools to make precise cuts. Problems with the roots: Roots that are damaged by construction, compaction, or other things can make it harder for the plant to absorb water and nutrients, which can turn the leaves brown. Ensure that the roots have sufficient space to grow and are not compacted or restricted. You can help your Hicks Yew shrub get healthy and vibrant again by fixing the problem that’s causing the leaves to turn brown and giving it the right care and attention.

Several factors can cause Hicks Yew to turn yellow, indicating potential stress or health issues. Some common reasons why the leaves on your Hicks Yew might be turning yellow are: Too much or too little watering can stress the plant and cause the leaves to turn yellow. Ensure that the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Deep, infrequent watering is preferable to shallow, frequent watering. Poor Drainage: Hicks Yew prefers well-draining soil. If the soil is compacted or poorly drained, it can lead to root suffocation and yellowing foliage. Consider amending the soil with organic matter to improve drainage. Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing foliage can indicate a nutrient deficiency, such as nitrogen, iron, or magnesium. If you find that the soil is missing any nutrients, you should add a balanced fertilizer or targeted nutrient supplements to fix the problem. Sunlight Exposure: Hicks Yew prefers partial to full shade but can tolerate some sunlight. If exposed to intense sunlight, especially during hot summer months, the foliage may yellow or burn. Consider providing some shade or relocating the plant to a more suitable location. Pests or Diseases: Pest infestations, such as spider mites or scale insects, can cause yellowing foliage. Inspect the plant for signs of pests and treat infestations promptly with appropriate insecticides. Root rot or fungal infections are two other diseases that can hurt Hicks Yew and cause its leaves to turn yellow. Prune away affected branches and improve air circulation to prevent the spread of disease. Environmental Stress: Hicks Yew can be sensitive to environmental stressors such as drought, extreme temperatures, or pollution. Make sure the plant gets enough water during dry spells and keep it away from extreme temperatures or pollutants. Transplant Shock: If recently transplanted, Hicks Yew may experience transplant shock, resulting in yellowing foliage. Provide extra care and attention to newly transplanted shrubs, including sufficient water and protection from stressors. You can help your Hicks Yew shrub get healthy and strong again by finding and fixing the root cause of its yellowing leaves.

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PLANT DESCRIPTION & MATURE SIZE

The Hicks Yew, whose scientific name is Taxus x media Hicksii, is a beautiful evergreen shrub that can be used in many ways and looks great as a strong architectural element in many garden designs. With its narrow, columnar shape and lush, dark green foliage, this plant offers year-round beauty and privacy. The Hicks Yew is very hardy and flexible, making it a great choice for gardeners who want to make living screens, hedges, or just add a touch of evergreen sophistication to their outdoor spaces.

GROWTH RATE & MATURE SIZE:

Growth rate is slow to moderate; when fully grown, it will be 10 to 12 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide.

The Hicks Yew grows best in full sun to partial shade and needs to be watered regularly, especially in its first year. Once established, it is somewhat drought-tolerant but will appreciate occasional deep watering during dry spells.

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