Grinch-y Cypress Tree

Cypress Tree as a Houseplant – Care Guide

Overview

• Botanical Name: Cupressus macrocarpa, Cupressus sempervirens, or dwarf cultivars

• Common Names: Lemon Cypress, Mini Cypress, Indoor Cypress, Goldcrest Cypress

• Height Indoors: Typically up to 2–3 feet in pots; pruned to maintain size

• Lifespan Indoors: Often grown as a temporary holiday or décor plant, but can live for years indoors with proper care

Light Requirements

• Bright, Direct Light is Essential

  • Place near a south- or west-facing window

  • Needs at least 6 hours of sun daily for healthy growth

  • Without adequate light, the plant may turn brown or lose needles

Tip: Rotate the pot weekly to ensure even light exposure and balanced growth.

Watering Needs

• Moisture-sensitive but not tolerant of soggy roots

  • Keep soil evenly moist, not soggy

  • Allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings

  • Water thoroughly, letting excess drain away

  • In winter, reduce watering frequency slightly

Signs of Overwatering: Root rot, yellowing or browning needles
Signs of Underwatering: Dry, crispy needles and leaf drop

Humidity & Temperature

• Temperature: Ideal indoor range is 15–22°C (60–72°F)

• Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity

  • Use a humidity tray or mist the plant weekly in dry indoor environments

  • Keep away from heat vents, radiators, or cold drafts

Fertilizing

• Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer

• No fertilization needed in fall and winter during slower growth

Pruning & Maintenance

• Trim lightly to maintain a conical or compact shape

• Remove brown or dead tips with sterilized scissors

• Wipe dust off foliage regularly to keep breathing surfaces clean

Repotting

• Repot every 1–2 years in early spring

• Use a well-draining potting mix (cactus mix + peat or loamy mix with sand/perlite)

• Choose a container with drainage holes

Holiday-Specific Varieties

Many mini cypress trees are sold during the holidays in decorative pots. Here's how to keep them alive post-holiday:

• Remove any foil wrapping around the pot to prevent waterlogging

• Re-pot if roots are tightly packed or soggy

• Move to a bright, cool room away from heat sources

Common Problems

• Browning Tips - due to low humidity or underwatering. Mist more and increase humidity
• Yellowing Foliage - overwatering or underwatering. Check roots, improve drainage
• Sparse Growth - low light. Move to a sunnier location