Deodar cedars, which are evergreen coniferous trees, do indeed lose their needles. This process usually occurs during later summer, fall, and spring. During these seasons, the tree sheds its old needles to make way for new growth in the spring. However, it is important to note that not all the needles are shed at once, but rather in a gradual manner over a period of time.
One of the disadvantages of deodar cedars is that they can be quite messy when it comes to losing their needles. As the old needles fall, they can accumulate on the ground, creating a carpet of needles around the base of the tree. This can be bothersome for some gardeners or homeowners who prefer a neat and tidy appearance in their outdoor spaces.
When these needles accumulate, they can be a bit challenging to clean up. Raking or sweeping the needles can help to remove them, but it may require regular maintenance to keep the area clean. Additionally, if the tree is located near a pool, patio, or other outdoor gathering areas, the falling needles can be a nuisance, as they may need to be cleared away more frequently.
It’s worth mentioning that the messiness of deodar cedars can vary depending on the individual tree and its health. A healthy tree may shed its needles more evenly and efficiently, resulting in a less cluttered appearance. On the other hand, a stressed or unhealthy tree may drop needles more sporadically, leading to a messier situation.
In my personal experience as a gardener, I have encountered situations where the falling needles from deodar cedars became a bit overwhelming. I had to regularly clean up the fallen needles to maintain a clean and organized garden. However, I have also seen well-maintained deodar cedars that shed their needles in a more controlled manner, requiring less effort to keep the area tidy.
To summarize, deodar cedars do lose their needles, typically during later summer, fall, and spring. While this shedding of needles is a natural process for the tree’s growth, it can create a messy situation in the surrounding area. Regular maintenance and clean-up may be necessary to keep the space tidy, especially in high-traffic or gathering areas.
