How to Grow and Care for Canadian Hemlock Trees
- Common Name
- Botanical Name
- Family
- Plant Type
- Mature Size
- Sun Exposure
- Soil Type
- Soil pH
- Hardiness Zones
- Native Area. Moderately slow-growing (12 to 24 inches per year) and long-lived (up to 800 years 2 ), Canadian hemlock trees in the wild can reach 70 feet tall or ...
Do hemlock trees lose their leaves?
Do hemlock trees lose their leaves? As the season progresses, these buds swell, turn gray and wax out. As the hemlock grows, it suffers, drops leaves, turns brown, and even drops branches and new shoots. Insecticidal soap sprays are a good remedy for this problem, but you need to make sure the wood is completely saturated with water.
Is a hemlock tree a deciduous tree?
This tree is also known as the Canada Hemlock or Hemlock Spruce. It is a member of the pine family. Are hemlock trees deciduous? Most of the other species replacing eastern hemlock trees are deciduous, such as sweet birch, which unlike the evergreen rhododendron and eastern hemlock, do not transpire during the winter.
How many kinds of hemlock trees are there?
The Hemlock Tree is from the evergreen conifer classification. There are up to ten species of the tree, the most common being the Eastern Hemlock and the Western Hemlock. It was given the genus name tsugan by Stephen L. Endlicher who was a botanist from Austria.
Can deer eat hemlock?
Red squirrels and mice chew off the scales of the tiny hemlock cones to get at the seeds underneath. Deer will also eat hemlock foliage and twigs as high up as they can reach. Porcupines prefer hemlock and will eat the bark and chew off large twigs.
How wide do hemlock trees get?
Growing in the shade, hemlocks grow slowly, but can reach large diameters and heights. Hemlocks commonly reach two to four feet in diameter and 100 feet in height. One of the largest hemlocks is eighty-four inches (diameter, not circumference) and the maximum recorded height is 160 feet.
Are hemlocks fast growing?
Growth Rate This tree grows at a slow to medium rate, with height increases of anywhere from less than 12" to 24" per year.
How tall does hemlock get?
Description. Poison hemlock is a highly toxic biennial with the musty, unpleasant odor associated with alkaloids. It grows two to ten feet tall. The stems are ribbed and hollow with purplish streaks or splotches.
Is hemlock A good tree?
Hemlocks provide water to watersheds, and conversely, take up excess water, making flooding events less severe. Because they transpire more slowly and at a more constant rate than their hardwood neighbors, the presence of hemlocks make more water available to watersheds during the growing season.
What is the lifespan of a hemlock tree?
800 yearsTsuga canadensis (L. Eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), also called Canada hemlock or hemlock spruce, is a slow-growing long-lived tree which unlike many trees grows well in shade. It may take 250 to 300 years to reach maturity and may live for 800 years or more.
Do hemlocks have deep roots?
Root System Impact A number of hemlock species with fibrous roots possess shallow root systems. Eastern or Canadian hemlock (Tsuga Canadensis), a common landscaping species, has a shallow but aggressive root system.
Are hemlock trees the same as poison hemlock?
Despite its common name, poison hemlock is not a tree; it is a member of the carrot family, Apiaceae (formerly Umbelliferae).
Is hemlock tree poisonous to dogs?
Is Poison Hemlock Toxic to Dogs? Poison hemlock is toxic, when ingested, to people, livestock and, yes, cats and dogs.
Do hemlock trees need full sun?
Hemlocks do not thrive under hot, dry conditions. They grow well in partial shade and will tolerate full shade. Hemlocks also grow well in full sun if their soil requirements are met.
Are hemlock trees messy?
Canadian hemlock trees are shade-tolerant and make very little mess, keeping their graceful look throughout the seasons.
Do deer eat hemlock trees?
Deer will also eat hemlock foliage and twigs as high up as they can reach. Porcupines prefer hemlock and will eat the bark and chew off large twigs. If you see scattered hemlock twigs or tips in the snow, look up.
Should I plant hemlocks?
Plant trees at 4 feet apart or in a hedge Planting – The best time to plant hemlocks is in early spring. Hemlocks can be sensitive if planted in the fall and extra care should be taken to water, fertilize, and protect from winter salt spray. Plant with the root flare 2 to 4 inches above the soil.
How far apart should you plant hemlocks?
Plant trees at 4 feet apart or in a hedge Planting – The best time to plant hemlocks is in early spring. Hemlocks can be sensitive if planted in the fall and extra care should be taken to water, fertilize, and protect from winter salt spray. Plant with the root flare 2 to 4 inches above the soil.
Can you cut the top off a hemlock?
Hemlock trees will grow new branches from the needle whorls, and pruning just above them will ensure that the new branches come in properly. If damage to the hemlock tree is extensive, severe pruning may be needed. Hemlock trees can withstand severe pruning and will recover from losing as much as 50% of its branches.
Should hemlocks be trimmed?
It is best to trim and prune hemlocks in early spring or late winter before the active growth period begins, trimming only what is necessary. Hemlocks will sprout vigorous new growth once trimmed and pruning during the active growth period may prevent the tree from going dormant when it needs to.
How far apart do you plant Canadian hemlock?
Plant in spring or summer on well-drained, moist soils. Avoid hot, dry windy locations and areas where there is air pollution and salt spray, such as close to a road. Space plants 30 to 40 feet apart; closer for dwarf forms or if grown in a hedge. Keep trees well watered.
USDA Plant Hardiness Zones, Sun, and Soil Requirements
Canadian hemlock trees are best grown in USDA plant hardiness zones 3-7. They are indigenous to eastern North America.These trees require a soil th...
Socrates, Poison Hemlock, and Canadian Hemlock Trees: Any Connection?
You have probably heard of the ancient Greek philosopher, Socrates, whom the people of Athens sentenced to death for corrupting their youth. Socrat...
Warnings About Growing This Tree
Besides being prone to uprooting in wind storms, Canadian hemlock trees have two major drawbacks in the form of two pests that attack them: 1. Wool...
Cultivars of Canadian Hemlock Trees For Landscape Use
There are many cultivars of Canadian hemlock trees that have been developed for landscape use. Such cultivars have been bred specifically to functi...
What is a hemlock tree?
Hemlock trees are any of the 8-10 species of medium- to large-sized evergreen conifers that belong to the genus Tsuga of the subfamily Abietoideae . These graceful conifers are named hemlock because the smell of their crushed foliage is similar to that of a flowering plant called poison hemlock. However, the members of the genus Tsuga are not poisonous. They have a variety of uses, as they make popular ornamental and timber trees. The hemlock timber is harder and stronger than that of pine.
What are the needles of hemlock used for?
The needles of hemlock are rich in Vitamin C. They are used for making tea.
Is hemlock wood pulp threatened?
IUCN Conservation Status. Two common species such as the Eastern Hemlock and Western Hemlock are listed as near threatened and least concern respectively.
What is a hemlock tree?
Trees. Hemlock trees (botanical name Tsuga) are a species of large evergreen coniferous trees native to North America. Hemlock trees are identified by their conical shape, flat, aromatic needle-like leaves, oval or cylindrical seed-bearing cones, and reddish-brown bark. Cultivars of the popular Eastern hemlock or Canadian hemlock are also beautiful ...
How to identify hemlock trees?
Identify hemlock trees by their needle leaves, cones, reddish-brown scaly bark, and drooping growth habit. The identifiable characteristic of hemlocks is their flat, glossy, green needle leaves with white stripes on one side. Also, look for small, egg-shaped cones with large, rounded brown scales hanging off branches.
How tall is a Canadian hemlock?
Canadian hemlock grows between 40 and 70 ft. (12 – 21 m) tall. Eastern hemlocks are recognized by their broadly conical shape, straight trunk, and branches that droop at the tips.
What do hemlock cones look like?
Hemlock cones look like small oval, woody cylinders dangling from the branches. All conifers are identified by seed-producing cones. Hemlock cones are recognizable by their ovoid (egg shape) globular form. Cones on hemlock trees measure 0.6” to 1” (1.5 – 2.5 cm) and, like pine cones, hang pendulous from branches.
What are the leaves of a hemlock tree called?
Hemlock Tree Leaves (Needles) Hemlock leaves. Hemlock needle leaves are an identifying feature of trees in the genus Tsuga. The evergreen needle-like leaves are recognizable by their flat appearance and blunt, rounded tips.
How long are hemlock leaves?
Hemlock leaves vary in length on the branch. Typically, the needle leaves are 0.6” to 0.8” (1.5 – 2 cm) long. However, they can be as short as 0.2” (0.5 cm). Looking closely at pictures of hemlock leaves, you will spot fine serration on the needle margins, especially near the blunt tip.
How to tell if a hemlock tree is a pine tree?
Another way to tell hemlocks apart from pine trees is to look at the cones. Hemlock cones are smaller and have larger scales than pine tree cones. Additionally, hemlock tree cones are more rounded or globular than pine cones. Visually, there are a few identifying differences between pines and hemlocks.
How tall is a Canadian hemlock tree?
Moderately slow-growing and long-living, Canadian hemlock trees in the wild can reach 70 feet tall or higher with a spread of 25 to 35 feet. These are fragrant plants and crushing the needles releases their aroma.
What is the poisonous bark of hemlock?
Conium maculatum and Circuta maculata are the poisonous hemlocks. The bark of the Canadian hemlock is one of the primary tree sources of tannins traditionally used for tanning hides for clothing during the 19th and early 20th centuries. 1. Along with its better-known relative, the eastern white pine, these trees are among ...
What is the most common evergreen tree in North America?
Along with its better-known relative, the eastern white pine , these trees are among the most common evergreen trees growing in the forests of eastern North America. They are pyramidal or conical in shape and their small, fragrant two-toned green needles give them a fine texture. The bark of Canadian hemlock trees at maturity can be reddish-brown.
What is compact shrub?
Compact cultivars, which are essentially shrubs, are commonly used as privacy hedge plants or in foundation plantings. If you begin pruning them when young, they are fairly easy to shape.
What type of soil do trees need?
Soil. These trees require soil that is moist but has good drainage. They prefer a loamy, acidic soil. Shallow-rooted, these trees need protection from the wind, or else you might return home one day after a storm only to find your tree lying on the ground.
How to root a tree from a cutting?
Make a clean cut (no tearing or breaking the branch). To encourage successful rooting, dip the base of the cutting entirely in a rooting hormone powder used for woody shrubs and trees. Place the cutting in a pot filled with well-drained potting mix. Push the base of the cutting into the soil about 2 inches deep.
Can deer damage hemlock trees?
Canadian Hemlocks can also be damaged by deer; perhaps seek an alternative tree or shrub with better deer resistance if your area has a heavy deer population that frequently damages your trees and shrubs.
What is a hemlock tree?
Image by JamesPearsell. Hemlock trees ( Tsuga) are the Ferraris of the evergreen world — these graceful, drooping trees and shrubs are gorgeous additions to the landscape but require very exacting conditions to do well. Like other beautiful and delicate things, if you can get hemlocks to thrive in your landscape, ...
What zone do hemlocks grow in?
Although there are many hemlocks to choose between for gardeners in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 7, many cultivars only do well in a smaller part of that range, so read the nursery tag carefully before bringing your hemlock home.
Can you grow hemlock trees in the shade?
The question isn’t so much how to plant a hemlock tree as where to plant them. Unlike many other large landscape trees, hemlocks have evolved while growing in the shade of other trees, so you’ll need to choose a place that’s protected , especially against winter winds and drying summer heat.
When is the best time to treat hemlock?
Regular inspections of your hemlock will help prevent serious damage from this pest, provided you check for them at least once a year. October is the best time to treat these pests, using either insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Can hemlock trees topple?
The shallow roots of the hemlock can allow it to topple easily; if high winds are a frequent problem, a stabilizing tree stake should be considered while your hemlock is young.
Do hemlocks need water?
They need acidic soils that stay moist, but not wet, and frequent waterings. Like willows, hemlocks are riverbank trees, so if your site is elevated and dry, you may need to add a thick ring of mulch over your tree’s root zone and consider installing a drip irrigation system to keep your tree looking its best.
Do hemlock trees grow in shade?
Unlike many other large landscape trees, hemlocks have evolved while growing in the shade of other trees, so you’ll need to choose a place that’s protected, especially against winter winds and drying summer heat.
How tall is a hemlock tree?
Scientifically called Tsuga Canadensis, Eastern hemlock is a slow-growing plant that takes almost two decades to reach its ultimate height of 40 feet and width of 25 to 30 feet. That being said, the tree is a long-living one and has the ability to survive up to thousands of years.
How big does a mountain hemlock tree get?
Mountain hemlock (Tsuga mertensiana), also known as, black hemlock and hemlock spruce, is a humungous tree with an ability to grow 40 m tall and 150 cm wide. The fact that it can develop into a 100-feet tall tree, not many people are successfully able to incorporate this giant tree into their landscape. Even those who are able to cultivate and grow monstrous hemlock fail to maintain it on a daily basis.
What is the difference between a Caroline Hemlock and a Tsuga Canadensis?
Often remarked for resembling Eastern hemlock, Caroline hemlock is different in the sense that its seed cones are longer than Tsuga Canadensis. The tall tree consists of short, glossy green needle-like tips that are round in shape. These needles tend to have two white stoma stripes, one on the front and the second on the back. These needle-like leaves also produce brown cones that are usually 3 cm long. In addition, the big tree exhibits small, round blooms which are barely visible on canopy-like branches – the most distinctive feature of the hemlock.
What are the leaves of a hemlock tree?
Hemlock boasts flat, needle-like leaves which are spirally embellished on the tree branches. The leaves are light green in color and tend to become darker as they age. Being a typical conifer, hemlocks develop cones (both male and female ones) instead of flowers. These cones tend to be at the end of the branches in a small, oval shape with a touch of brown color. Hemlock is known for its dense, wet habitats, constituting dry, rocky soil. The species of hemlock can be found in and around forests, on rocky areas, river banks, hilly regions, and in the ravines as well. For hemlock to grow sound and healthy, it must be cultivated in regions that receive enough annual rainfall and snowfall.
What tree resembles a Christmas tree?
To visualize eastern hemlock, note that it best resembles a Christmas tree as it boasts intense green needle-like leaves on pyramidal branches. Plenty of brown cones hang from the branches of hemlock trees like small, beautiful ornaments just like goodies hang from the branches of a Christmas tree.
How many species of hemlock are there?
Known as Tsuga in Japanese, hemlock is an evergreen tree that belongs to the pine family and the subfamily – Abietoideae. Research shows that there are about 10 species of hemlock. Four of these species belong to America, while the other six are native to regions in Asia.
What color are the cones on a tree?
The tree also produces small greenish-red seed cones in abundance. As the tree ages, the cones change its color into darkish brown. Unlike many trees that tend to become weak as they age, the reddish-brown or dark brown bark tends to become thick as the tree gets old.
What zone do Canadian hemlock trees grow in?
In general, this species does well in cooler to cold climates, and thrives in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 7.
What insect kills Canadian hemlocks?
If you live in Virginia, Maryland or Pennsylvania, or other areas where infestations of woolly adelgid have been severe, remain vigilant. These are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can kill Canadian hemlocks. Treatment includes pesticides containing imidacloprid or dinotefuran. Printer Friendly Version.
How big do sage trees grow?
They have a slow to medium growth rate of up to 24 inches (61 cm.) a year, maturing to 50 to 70 feet (15-21 m.) tall and 25 feet (7.6 m.) wide. Don’t worry about their roots.
Can you use Canadian hemlock as a specimen tree?
Canadian hemlocks in the landscape have flat sprays of lacy evergreen foliage and graceful, pyramid shapes. Their elegance makes them excellent choices for specimen trees. However, the trees are very tolerant of shearing. This means that you can also keep them short or use them for privacy screens.
Do Canadian hemlock trees need direct sun?
The trees prefer partial shade, especially in areas with hot summers, but do require daily direct sun. If your region gets strong winds, pick a planting spot with wind protection.
Do Canadian hemlocks need irrigation?
As it matures, it still requires frequent irrigation during dry weather. Canadian hemlocks are not very drought tolerant. Care for Canadian hemlock trees can also require regular pruning if you wish to keep the tree a particular size or shape. It is not necessary for the trees’ health, however. Although these trees are hardy to zone 3, their roots ...
Is it necessary to mulch hemlock trees?
It is not necessary for the trees’ health , however. Although these trees are hardy to zone 3, their roots do better with protection against winter chill. The best care for Canadian hemlock trees includes applying a thick winter mulch.
Where is the Western Hemlock found?
Known for its durable timber, the western hemlock is a species of large conifers found in the western coastal regions of North America. It is the dominant climax species in the forests west of the Pacific Coast Ranges.
What is the Washington State tree?
In 1947, western hemlock was designated as the “Washington State Tree.”. Native people used hemlock bark as a tanning agent and cleansing solution, owing to its high tannin content. Its inner bark was used by the Alaska Indians to produce coarse bread.
