Tsuga mertensiana
Mountain Hemlock
High-altitude conifer with silvery needles; elegant but slower-growing; best for upright styles.
Now: Mid Spring
Care Guide
Placement
Full sun to partial shade
Tolerates more sun than other Tsuga but still benefits from shade.
Watering
Moderate
Moisture retention critical; mulching is beneficial.
Fertilization
Balanced
Balanced feed early and late in season; avoid midsummer feeding.
Pruning
Maintenance throughout growing season; structural in spring
Best pruned after flush hardens; avoid deep cuts into bare wood.
Wiring
Spring or Autumn
Thin bark - pad wire carefully and adjust seasonally.
Repotting
Every 3-5 years
Repot in cool weather; mist frequently afterward.
Propagation
Cuttings or seed
Slow to root; air layering preferred for mature specimens.
Winter: Hardy, but prolonged freeze can damage fine root tips.
Summer: Water early in the day; maintain high ambient humidity.
Zone 8b: Watch for spider mites (Jul-Aug); Prevent rot in wet Nov-Jan
