With its slender growth and elegantly overhanging branches, the shapely hemlock deserves a top spot in the garden. To ensure that the densely needled pine tree maintains its harmonious silhouette as a solitary plant, in a group or as a hedge, annual pruning is recommended. You can read about what you need to pay attention to here
When and how should you prune a Canadian hemlock?
Answer: The ideal time to prune a Canadian hemlock is between February and April. Concentrate the pruning on one- to two-year-old wood by shortening branches that are too long and removing dead or diseased branches. Hedges can also receive a light summer trim.
Time window for editing opens in February
Regardless of its botanical classification as a pine family, the Canadian hemlock does not like to be bothered with pruning shears in the middle of its growth. While mountain pines only receive their topiary shortly before the beginning of summer, a Tsuga canadensis has long since coped with the stress by this point. If you prune your Canadian hemlock between February and April, everything will be fine.
Hedges tolerate light summer pruning
Cultivated as an evergreen privacy hedge, the Canadian hemlock catches the eye all year round. In this case, nose-like shoots really disrupt the well-groomed appearance. It's a good thing that around St. John's Day (June 24th) you can safely trim branches that are too long.
It's better to protect old wood - what to pay attention to when cutting
In order to skillfully cut a Tsuga canadensis, restraint is the top priority. As long as the pruning measures focus on the one to two-year-old wood, the tree meets all expectations as a solitary and hedge plant with dense, bushy shoots. How to cut the tree correctly:
- Short branches that are too long by a maximum of the shoots of the previous 2 years
- Cut off dead branches at the base without damaging the branch ring
- Remove inward-facing shoots as well as stunted, diseased branches
Consistency is the key when it comes to proper pruning of a hemlock. If you prune for shape and maintenance every year, you can also regulate height growth without affecting the slim silhouette. However, if the tree is only beheaded at an advanced age, it sprouts a nest-like top and at the same time becomes noticeably wider.
Cut hedge into trapezoid shape
In order for a hemlock to maintain its dense needlework as a hedge, light and air should reach all regions of the tree. By cutting the hedge in a trapezoid shape, this requirement is met.
Tip
If you are looking for an evergreen tree for the grave, you will find it in the dwarf hemlock 'Nana'. Thanks to a low height in the shape of a nest of up to a maximum of 60 cm, the easy-care tree beautifully decorates the resting place even if it is in the shade.
