All Species > Tsuga canadensis

Canadian Hemlock

Graceful native conifer with fine needles and flowing habit; excellent for literati or natural styles.

Seasonal Care Guide

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  • Watering: Minimal watering required. Water every 2–3 weeks if dry.
  • Repotting: Begin evaluating rootbound trees for early spring repotting.
  • Pests Disease: Check for adelgid eggs or spider mites. Treat with dormant oil if necessary.
  • Winter Protection: Maintain wind protection. Protect from desiccation.
  • Deadwood Carving: Plan but don’t carve. Wood is fragile in cold.
  • Development: Review silhouette and branch structure.

Placement & Seasonal Notes

  • Placement: Partial shade to full sun
  • Notes: Protect from hot afternoon sun; prefers cool roots.
  • Winter: Protect roots in containers from deep freeze.
  • Summer: Provide humidity and shade to reduce needle drop.

Leaf Traits

  • Persistence: Evergreen
  • Form: Conifer

Watering & Fertilization

  • Watering: Moderate to high
  • Notes: Keep moist but never waterlogged; sensitive to drought.
  • Season: Spring → Autumn
  • Fertilization: Balanced
  • Notes: Fertilize in early spring and late summer.

Training Techniques

  • Wiring: Spring or Autumn
  • Notes: Flexible but slow to set - leave wire on longer.
  • Pruning: Maintenance throughout growing season; structural in spring
  • Notes: Remove vigorous leaders; encourage lateral growth.
  • Repotting: Every 3-5 years
  • Notes: Repot as new growth emerges; protect from wind post-repot.

Propagation

  • Method: Cuttings or seed
  • Notes: Layering is reliable; cuttings root with care.

Zone 8b Considerations

Watch for spider mites (Jul-Aug); Prevent rot in wet Nov-Jan