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| Tsuga canadensis
Canadian hemlockCulture: The Canadian hemlock prefers moist and acidic soils with good drainage. It is tolerant of shade but does not tolerate wind, drought or pollution. When planted in full sun, avoid dry sites or be prepared to provide some additional water in periods of drought. If the tree is located in full sun and temperatures climb into the 90 degree (F) plus range, damage to the foliage will result if moisture is inadequate. Although it prefers acidic soils, I have successfully grown this species over a buried limestone gravel driveway with only modification of the soil at the surface. It is best transplanted balled and burlapped, and should be pruned in either spring or summer. If you live in the Eastern U.S., the major insect of concern is the wooly adelgid. The adelgid produces cotton-like masses along the small branches, causing a general decline in vigor. The adelgid is a serious problem limiting use in those areas. In the Midwest, the aphid has not been a problem thus far. Although this species is subject to several leaf, shoot, and cone rusts, cankers and blights, none are of any real importance. It is also subject to heart, sapwood, and root rots, borers, leafminers, scale, spruce budworm, gypsy moth, saw fly, sunscorch, and drought, some of which may injure the tree. Despite all of these potential problems, few are of any significance under landscape conditions. The only other problem of concern is sensitivity to drought if planted in a site that is too dry. Usage: This species is ideal for good groupings, specimen / accent plantings and screens. Although it is adaptable to shearing, much of the plant's gracefulness will be lost if pruned or sheared into hedges. The great variety of dwarf cultivars can be used as foundation plantings, small foliage plants in the front of shrub borders. Being one of a small list of shade-tolerant conifers, the Canadian hemlock can find a home in many landscape sites. |
