How to Propagate a Canadian Hemlock
The Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) is an evergreen member of the pine family of trees. In the wild, the Canadian Hemlock tree will reach up to 80 feet tall; however, in most landscapes they are pruned to remain smaller. Propagate the Canadian Hemlock by taking a cutting from an existing tree. Once the proper growing conditions are created for the cutting, it will develop roots and begin to grow. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Hand pruners
- Rooting hormone
- Plant pot
- Coarse sand
- Water
- Milk Jug
- Utility knife
- Heating mat
Instructions
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Wait until the winter when Canadian Hemlocks are dormant to locate an existing tree from which to take a cutting. Look for a branch that is disease free and has no broken areas on the bark.
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Cut off the last 3 to 5 inches of the branch using hand pruners and making the cut straight across the branch.
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3
Pull off the needles from the lower half of the hemlock stem cutting, using your fingers. Dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone powder to cover the bottom 1 inch.
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4
Fill a plant pot with coarse sand and create a 2-inch-deep hole in the center of it using your finger. Insert the cut end of the hemlock cutting into the hole and fill in the hole with more sand until the cutting stands upright by itself.
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Place the pot in an indoor location that receives bright sunlight, but not direct sunlight, such as near a window.
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Cut the bottom 1 inch off a milk jug using a utility knife. Set the milk jug on top of the pot to prevent the moisture from evaporating. Leave the lid on the top of the jug.
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Place a heating mat under the pot. Plug the cord into an electrical outlet. Set the thermostat to maintain a temperature of between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Water the pot at least every other day to keep the soil moist.
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Tips & Warnings
You will know the cutting has grown roots when you see new growth appear on it.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
