Why is my Leyland cypress dying, and what should I replace it with?

Leyland cypress has been massively overplanted across North Carolina and is increasingly prone to serious diseases including Seiridium canker and bot canker, as well as root rot in our clay soils. Many homeowners are discovering their Leyland cypress hedges failing after 15–20 years. Superior alternatives for screening in NC include Emily Bruner Holly, Nellie Stevens Holly, Green Giant Arborvitae, and Cryptomeria—all of which offer better long-term disease resistance and adaptability to North Carolina conditions.