The deodar cedar is a conifer native to the Himalayan regions which has a number of wonderful benefits including its usefulness as a timber and in agricultural settings. The tree can grow from 10-20m (30-70ft) high with a spread of between 6-15m (20-50ft)
Like any cedar, the deodar tree is high in oils, commonly called the “chilu oil” that has great benefits for preserving and storing food items. Kashmirian Indians lay the branches of this tree over their corn and rice seeds to help organically eliminate weeds. The practice is not successful as one might expect from a perceived mulching process but instead it is the oils in the branches that kill the weeds. They also make thir storage bins from the timber of the deodar as the oils protect against pests eating their harvest.
Deodar’s pyramidal shape and almost weeping tiered branches make a great ornamental tree. If you’re interested in planting one in your garden you might first consider the climate of you area as these cedars require cold gardening zones. The deodar is also one of the fastest growing conifers and should make a statement for your new garden reasonably quickly.
The deodar tree requires minimal maintenance and can be pruned to keep it’s shape. If you plan to fertilise use a fertiliser that promotes strong trunk growth rather than one that will encourage foliage growth.