Hemlock Tree

Hemlock trees elevate the beauty of any landscape and are hence, preferred by many. However, they need extra effort and regular maintenance. This article presents few tips that are to be followed while planting, pruning and watering Hemlock.

1. Watering: Hemlock tree cannot resist high temperature. Hence, water them either early in the morning or in the evening. It is highly recommended to spray water on the trees with a garden hose at least once in a week during summer. This will not only help in better watering of the trees but also washes out bugs resting on the trees. After spraying water on the tree let the hose remain at the base of the tree for about fifteen to twenty minutes so as to allow the water penetrate deep in to the soil and reach the root system of the tree. This will ensure perfect growth of Hemlock tree.

2. Trimming: To let the Hemlock trees grow healthier and taller it is essential to trim them periodically. They should be trimmed thinly in such a way to allow plenty of light and air to reach the bushy parts. Make sure to trim Hemlock only on cool days. A perfectly grown Hemlock tree can grow up to 50 feet tall. Early spring or late fall is the right time to prune your Hemlock tree. If you do not take the pain of trimming then they grow in a pyramidal shape which also looks great.

3. Planting: For proper growth of Hemlock tree it should be planted in places far away from gas emissions. So, never plant them near to the street. For proper growth of the tree, it is essential to dig a deep and wider hole. After the hole has been dug, place the Hemlock tree in the hole and fill the hole with mulch made of pine straw and bark for about three inches and then cover the rest of the hole with soil.

4. User of fertilizers: Never add fertilizer close to the root system while planting the Hemlock tree. First let the tree settle in the soil for few months and then add the fertilizer. It is recommended to add the fertilizer once in a year. Generally, balanced fertilizers with nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the ration of 8:8:8 or 10:10:10 are preferred basing on the fertility of the soil.

5. Control of infestation: Hemlock tree is very sensitive and if any infestation is not regulated in the initial stages it may result in the death of the tree. Watch the trees carefully for signs of infestation such as appearance of white substance on the undersides as well as on the top of needles, damaged bark, fungal growth at the base of the tree, dead or darkened roots and presence of insect larvae. To prevent the spread of infestation, it is essential to trim the diseased parts and clean the trimmed region with wood alcohol. Use either pesticides or fungicides depending on the source of infestation.
Lastly, to prevent infestation and to maintain their beauty pesticides and fungicides should be sprayed twice a year. If you cannot do it on your own, get it done through horticultural service.