How Fast Do Cedar Trees Grow? Growth Rate & Conditions Explained
How fast do cedar trees grow?
On average, cedar trees grow 12 to 24 inches per year, with some types—like the Eastern red cedar—topping out at nearly 3 feet annually under ideal conditions. Whether you’re planting as a privacy screen, windbreak, or ornamental accent, understanding the cedar growth rate is key to planning your landscape.
In this guide, we’ll break down annual growth rates, explain what influences how long it takes for cedar trees to grow, and offer ways to speed things up. We’ll also share a cedar height chart by species and link to tools that help you calculate spacing, ROI, and long-term value.
✅ Want to see how much a mature cedar tree could be worth? Use our Tree Value Calculator here.
If you’re also wondering how big do cedar trees grow or how the red cedar growth rate compares to other varieties, we’ve got all that covered below.
And if you’re planning to start small with container planting or looking into other fast-growers for your yard, you’ll find references to our full set of planting calculators and species-specific guides.
Table of Contents
Cedar Tree Growth Rate by Year
How fast do cedar trees grow each year? Most cedars grow between 1 to 2 feet annually, though some species like the Eastern red cedar can push 3 feet per year in full sun and ideal soil. Cedar growth rate varies by species, and that directly affects how soon you’ll get a mature tree providing shade, privacy, or property value.
Below is a quick breakdown of average cedar height gains by species:
| Cedar Species | Annual Growth Rate | Mature Height | Growth Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Red Cedar | 1.5 – 3 ft/year | 40–50 ft | Fast |
| Western Red Cedar | 1 – 2 ft/year | 125–150 ft | Moderate |
| Atlas Cedar | 0.5 – 1 ft/year | 40–60 ft | Slow |
| Deodar Cedar | 1 – 2 ft/year | 50–70 ft | Moderate |
| Lebanon Cedar | 0.5 – 1 ft/year | 60–80 ft | Slow |
When deciding which cedar species to plant, consider both the growth rate and how big cedar trees grow at maturity. How long does it take for cedar trees to grow to their full size? For many types, expect 20–30 years to reach maximum height—but faster-growing varieties like the red cedar can become effective windbreaks or privacy screens in just 5–10 years.
✅ Before planting, get your spacing right and calculate return on investment with these tools:
The red cedar growth rate in particular makes it a favorite for quick results—especially in rural windrows or suburban backyard buffers.
Factors That Influence Cedar Tree Growth
How fast do cedar trees grow is influenced by several key factors, including climate, soil quality, and watering practices. Understanding these elements can help you optimize growth and achieve desired heights more efficiently.
Climate and Hardiness Zones
Cedar trees thrive in specific USDA hardiness zones, which dictate the minimum temperatures a plant can withstand. For instance, Eastern red cedars are hardy in zones 2 through 9, making them suitable for a wide range of climates. To determine your specific zone and ensure optimal growth conditions, refer to this comprehensive guide: What Planting Zone Am I In?.
Soil Quality
The growth rate of cedar trees is significantly affected by soil conditions. Well-draining soils rich in organic matter promote healthier root systems and faster growth. If your soil is heavy clay or overly sandy, consider amending it with compost or other organic materials to improve its structure and nutrient content.
Watering Practices
Consistent watering is crucial, especially during the first few years after planting. While cedars are relatively drought-tolerant once established, young trees require regular moisture to develop strong root systems. Overwatering, however, can lead to root rot and other issues, so it’s essential to strike a balance.
By paying close attention to these factors, you can positively influence how fast cedar trees grow, ensuring they reach their full potential in your landscape.
How to Speed Up Cedar Tree Growth?
If you’re wondering how fast do cedar trees grow and how to get even more out of that pace, there are specific steps you can take to encourage faster, healthier growth—especially in the first 5–10 years after planting.
Choose the Right Species
Start with the right cedar for your goals. If speed is a priority, the red cedar growth rate is hard to beat, especially when compared to slower-growing species like the Lebanon or Atlas cedar. Eastern red cedar, for example, is fast, tough, and adaptable to a range of soil types.
Soil Preparation
A cedar tree’s roots spread quickly in loose, well-aerated soil. Before planting, amend your soil with compost or aged manure. If your soil is compacted or nutrient-poor, growth will lag—regardless of species. Conduct a simple soil test to identify pH and deficiencies that may be holding your tree back.
Fertilize Strategically
Use a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer in early spring to support consistent growth. Apply it just outside the root zone and water thoroughly. Over-fertilizing won’t make cedar trees grow faster—it’ll just stress them out. A single spring application is usually enough to keep growth steady.
Pruning and Maintenance
Light pruning in early spring can promote new leader growth and keep the structure balanced. Remove any weak or crossing branches. Don’t prune heavily unless necessary, as this can slow growth temporarily.
Watering Schedule
In the first two years, your cedar tree will need weekly deep watering unless rainfall is consistent. After that, water during dry periods. Overhead sprinkling can lead to fungus on lower foliage, so focus on base watering or drip systems.
✅ Want to know how long it takes for cedar trees to grow to maturity in your yard? Try our Tree Spacing Calculator and Tree Planting Cost Calculator to plan your layout and budget.
These techniques are especially helpful if you’re working with smaller yards or growing cedar in mixed species plantings. Whether you’re focused on privacy, aesthetics, or eventual value, optimizing growth conditions is essential to get the most out of your investment.
How Big Do Cedar Trees Grow?
Cedar trees can grow anywhere from 40 to over 150 feet tall at maturity, depending on the species and growing conditions. Eastern red cedar typically maxes out around 50 feet, while Western red cedar can soar past 130 feet in ideal environments.
If you’re researching how fast do cedar trees grow, it’s just as important to understand their full size. Mature height influences spacing, root zone competition, and overall landscape impact. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from different types of cedar trees:
- Eastern Red Cedar: 40–50 feet tall, 8–20 feet wide. Compact and ideal for privacy screens or windbreaks.
- Western Red Cedar: 125–150 feet tall in the wild, though it stays closer to 60–80 feet in cultivated settings.
- Deodar Cedar: 50–70 feet tall, often used ornamentally for its drooping branches and blue-green needles.
- Lebanon Cedar: Up to 80 feet tall with a flat-topped, wide-spreading crown at maturity.
- Atlas Cedar: Slower growing, typically 40–60 feet tall with dense, upright form.
Knowing how big cedar trees grow helps you avoid overcrowding and long-term maintenance issues. Planting them too close to buildings or other trees can limit airflow, stunt growth, and increase disease risk.
Even with slower-growing varieties, a mature cedar adds real value to a property—whether for resale, aesthetics, or environmental benefits. And if you’re curious about long-term financial value, our Tree Value Calculator can help.
FAQs: Cedar Tree Growth Rate & Care
❓ What is the growth rate of a cedar tree per year?
The average cedar tree growth rate ranges from 1 to 2 feet per year. Some fast-growing types, like Eastern red cedar, can reach up to 3 feet annually in ideal conditions. Species, soil, and climate all play a role in how fast cedar trees grow.
❓ How long does it take for cedar trees to grow to full size?
Depending on the species, it can take 20 to 30 years for a cedar to reach its mature height. Faster-growing species like the red cedar may become landscape-ready in as little as 7 to 10 years.
❓ How fast do cedar trees grow in pots?
Cedar trees grow significantly slower in containers—often 30–50% slower than in-ground plantings—due to restricted root development and less consistent soil moisture. If you’re planting in a pot, expect modest gains each year.
❓ How big do cedar trees grow over time?
Mature cedar trees can grow anywhere from 40 feet to over 150 feet tall, depending on the species. For home landscapes, Eastern red cedar is a practical option, typically reaching about 50 feet.
❓ What affects the red cedar growth rate the most?
Soil drainage, sun exposure, and early watering routines are the biggest influences. Red cedars are adaptable, but they grow fastest in full sun and well-aerated, loamy soil.
Tools & Related Guides
Before you put a cedar sapling in the ground, take a moment to plan. From spacing to cost and long-term value, these free tools are designed to support smarter planting decisions and help you get the most out of how fast cedar trees grow.
✅ Essential Calculators for Cedar Tree Planning
- 🌳 Tree Spacing Calculator – Avoid overcrowding and optimize airflow.
- 💰 Tree Value Calculator – See what your mature cedar might be worth.
- 📉 Tree Planting Cost Calculator – Budget accurately before planting.
- 🌿 What Planting Zone Am I In? – Know your zone and grow accordingly.
For even more planting guidance and species-specific advice, browse our growing library of tree care guides. These resources help homeowners, hobbyists, and landowners understand not just how long it takes for cedar trees to grow, but how to care for them at every stage.
🔗 For expert-backed tips on houseplant care and plant behavior, explore this scientific resource from ScienceDirect.
Whether you’re planting for privacy, property value, or just the satisfaction of watching something grow, your cedar tree journey starts here—with the right tools and knowledge.
