The cones open, however, when mechanically detached from the tree, with the resinous seals breaking as the cones dry. Most of the unopened cones had slightly separated scales with trapped seeds. The trapped seeds probably lost their viability because of desiccation. Attached cones have remained closed for over 8 years. Cypress seeds require bare mineral soil for germination and establishment.
Tecate cypress occurs on coarse, rocky, clay or sand soils.
Soils are usually well drained. Facultative Seral Species Site requirements for cypress seedlings are typical of those for pioneer conifers. Chaparral species inhibit the establishment of cypress seedlings on most sites due to competition. However, many chaparral species are less able to compete on infertile soils where Tecate cypress is often found. On Tecate Peak, male strobili are mature by mid-October.