eastern hemlock

Commonly called Canadian Hemlock, this beautiful, conical evergreen is easily identifiable by its down-swept branches and tiny cones. Hemlocks grow best in rich, moist, well-draining soil. This member of the larger Pine (Pinaceae) family is found all over Northeast Ohio in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, plus various local Metroparks and forests.

Plant in well-drained, amended soil. Water well after planting; maintain 1” of water once a week the first year. Little pruning needed; shapes itself nicely. Remove dead branches trunk suckers or shear any time. When necessary, prune in spring to early summer. Fertilize in early spring, mid-summer and fall with an acidic fertilizer. Follow label instructions. Mulch 2″ to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect against extremes of soil temperature.