Cedars are intolerant of shade. Too much shade causes them to grow spindly. They prefer a well-drained, loamy soil that is acid to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.0), but adaptable as they are, they will accept less fertile, sandy, more alkaline soils. Cedars do not like to be transplanted, so choose young trees in containers. They may look a bit spindly, but they will fill out quickly. Cedars may be planted in the spring, but the best time to plant them is in the fall. Atlas cedars need to be placed where they will be protected from strong winds and storms. For more info on planting trees click here.