Hicks Yew Planting Guide: How to Grow Hicks Yews

Hicks yew (Taxus x media 'Hicksii') is a tall evergreen shrub used by landscapers to create borders for outdoor gardens. A hybrid of the Japanese and English yew, these conifers have a columnar growth habit, forming narrow, tall hedges that sprout flat, needle-like dark-green foliage, which bloom the yew species’ signature red berries. (Like other yews, Hicks yews are completely toxic save for the red aril surrounding its poisonous pits.)

Also known as the Hicksii yew, this evergreen shrub can grow from ten to fifteen feet tall, making them popular privacy screens or hedging for yards.

Hicks yew plants thrive best in USDA Hardiness Zones 3–7. These shrubs do not favor warm temperatures, so aim to plant them in the fall, winter, or spring.

Like other yews, Hicks yew can take years to establish, if they do at all. As such, experts recommend propagating your Hicks yew from an established plant, especially if you need an instant border or privacy hedge. Here is an overview of how to grow Hicks yew:

1. 1. Obtain the plants. The best way to grow Hicks yew is by transplanting shrubs that have mostly or already reached their mature height rather than planting and waiting for seeds or cuttings to grow. You can find mature, healthy plants at your local garden center or nursery that are the desired height of your landscape design. Wrap your trees in burlap to transport them.
2. 2. Prepare planting spots. Hicks yew prefers a slightly acidic soil type with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Hicks yews can tolerate full shade, partial shade, or full sun, though if you live in a hotter climate, you’ll need to water the soil more often (which should be well-draining). If possible, choose a planting spot less prone to sun or winter burn.
3. 3. Dig planting holes. If you’re planning for a border or hedge, prepare holes in your soil at least three feet apart. Make sure your holes are twice as wide as the root balls of your shrubs and deep enough to leave about an inch of the root ball exposed.
4. 4. Water the plants. Give your Hicks yews a deep and thorough watering right after planting the shrubs.

The Hicks yew is a low-maintenance plant that only requires basic upkeep once established. Here are some helpful care tips for growing yews:

1. 1. Prune annually: Even though Hicks yews have a slow growth rate, you should aim to prune them at least once a year, especially if you are growing them as a hedge or shaped border.
2. 2. Water as needed: Yews don’t like having a wet root system, so be mindful not to overwater your shrubs, which can lead to root rot. Once the top few inches of the soil have dried out, give your shrubs a thorough watering.
3. 3. Fertilize the soil: In the early spring, the first year after you plant your yew, apply a slow-release fertilizer to your soil. Spread the organic matter a few inches away from the base of the trunk to avoid attracting pests.
4. 4. Mulch the base: Mulch around the base of the plant using pine needles or peat moss to help the soil retain moisture and stave off weeds. Learn how to mulch your garden.
5. 5. Monitor for pests: Though this plant type is generally resistant to most pests, it can still be susceptible to weevils or mealybugs. If these pests invade your plants, use an organic insecticide, such as Diatomaceous Earth, to eliminate them. You can also spray cotton balls with a bit of rubbing alcohol and apply it to the affected parts of the plant.
6. 6. Watch for signs of disease: Watch out for telltale symptoms of needle blight, such as dark-green foliage turning yellowish and brown. If you notice signs of needle blight, cut back on watering and remove any dead leaves or branches.

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