How to Grow a Hemlock Tree
Whether grown as a hedge, a screen or just as a specimen plant, the Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) is an excellent choice as a landscape tree. At maturity the Hemlock can reach 60 to 80 feet in height and is pyramidal with pendulous weeping branches. The short, flat needles have a white stripe on the underside making this an easily identifiable conifer.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Choose your planting site. Hemlocks prefer a sunny location, in moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil.
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2
Dig the planting hole at least four times the width of the root ball and at a depth equal to that of the container.
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3
Remove the tree from its container. If balled, cut away the burlap surrounding at least half of the root ball. Be sure to also remove any tape, wire or twine that may be around the trunk.
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4
Place the Hemlock in the planting hole. Fill the hole with water and allow the soil to absorb it. This is an important step to ensure water reaches the roots immediately and to help prevent the tree from going into shock.
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5
Backfill the original soil into the planting hole. Carefully add soil around the entire circumference of the root ball to ensure the soil/root connection. Water the planting site thoroughly.
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6
Spread a two to four inch layer of mulch or other organic material around the entire planting area to prevent weeds and retain moisture.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Canada Hemlock is hardy in zones 3 to 7. Be sure to check the USDA Hardiness Zone map to make sure the tree will grow well in your area.
Hemlocks prefer moist, well-drained soil and are sensitive to dry planting sites. Be sure to water your tree regularly during its first 5 years with at least one to two inches of water.
Plant this tree in spring or early fall. If planting in the fall, be sure to deeply water the tree weekly before the ground freezes. This will help the tree to become established and prevent winter damage.
Canada Hemlock prefers to be grown in full sun. It will tolerate shade, but the tree will not be as dense.
Do not plant a Hemlock tree too near a structure. If planted as a foundation plant, it will quickly outgrow its location.
Hemlocks have very shallow roots and will rob the soil of surface moisture. Make sure to regularly water nearby turfgrass and other ornamental plants and shrubs, particularly in summer.
