Mountain Hemlock 1 – Mossy Spot

Collected Mountain Hemlock from Mount Washington

Provenance

Collected from Mount Washington via Olympic NF permit

Species Overview

High-altitude conifer with silvery needles; elegant but slower-growing; best for upright styles.

Leaf Persistence: Evergreen

Leaf Form: Conifer

Watering: Moderate

Watering Notes: Moisture retention critical; mulching is beneficial.

Watering Season: Spring → Autumn

Fertilization: Balanced

Fertilization Notes: Balanced feed early and late in season; avoid midsummer feeding.

Wiring: Spring or Autumn

Wiring Notes: Thin bark - pad wire carefully and adjust seasonally.

Pruning: Maintenance throughout growing season; structural in spring

Pruning Notes: Best pruned after flush hardens; avoid deep cuts into bare wood.

Repotting: Every 3-5 years

Repotting Notes: Repot in cool weather; mist frequently afterward.

Propagation: Cuttings or seed

Propagation Notes: Slow to root; air layering preferred for mature specimens.

Zone 8b: Watch for spider mites (Jul-Aug); Prevent rot in wet Nov-Jan

Placement & Seasonal Notes

Placement: Full sun to partial shade

Placement Notes: Tolerates more sun than other Tsuga but still benefits from shade.

Winter Notes: Hardy, but prolonged freeze can damage fine root tips.

Summer Notes: Water early in the day; maintain high ambient humidity.

June 30, 2025

Dig Up, Acquired

Collected from Mount Washington, Olympic Penninsula, Had permit
August 30, 2024

Other, Died

Died after collection during hot dry weeks due to heat and insufficient collected roots
August 13, 2023

Observation