2024 Author: Gavin MacAdam | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 13:38
Tsuga (Latin Tsuga) - a genus of evergreen conifers of the Pine family. The genus has 14 species, according to other sources - 18 species. In nature, hemlock is found in the temperate latitudes of North America and Asia. On the territory of Russia, mainly two species are grown: Hemlock variegated (Latin Tsuga diversifolia) and Canadian Hemlock (Latin Tsuga canadensis).
Characteristics of culture
Tsuga is an evergreen tree up to 65 m high with a conical or asymmetrical ovoid crown and hanging shoots. The bark is scaly, deeply fissured, brown or gray. The branches are curved downward, often flattened. Leaves are linear-lanceolate or flat, two-rowed, live for several years, after which they fall off. The tip of the leaves is notched, rounded or sharp, the vagina is absent.
The buds are not resinous, rounded. Female cones are oblong or ovoid, sit on short legs, full maturity occurs in six months, after the release of the seed they disappear or remain on the shoots. Male cones are round, solitary, form in 11-12 months. The scales of the cones are thin, smooth, leathery, in some representatives of the genus Tsugovye pubescent.
In appearance, the hemlock resembles a spruce, especially with a long-tiered crown with a pyramidal crown and hanging young branches. However, you can distinguish hemlock from spruce by needles and other minor characteristics. The hemlock is a long-liver, there are specimens more than 100 years old. The ability to form fruits of the plant retains up to 450 years. Every 3-5 years, the hemlock gives increased yields of cones. Cultural hemlock species live for about 100-150 years.
Growing conditions
Tsuga is a shade-tolerant culture, but in adulthood it requires a lot of sunlight. In areas with full shade, the lower branches of the hemlock are exposed, becoming thin and brittle. Semi-shaded areas are optimal for plants. Soils for growing hemlock are desirable loose, moist, fertile, sandy loam soils are also suitable.
The hemlock treats acidic and alkaline soils negatively, accepts slightly acidic and neutral ones. Stagnant water will negatively affect the development of culture, as well as cold strong winds. Mandatory for hemlock mulching of the near-trunk zone. Mulch will protect the roots from overheating.
Reproduction and planting
Hemlock is propagated by seeds and cuttings. Decorative forms can be propagated by grafting. Seeds need preliminary stratification for 1-4 months at a temperature of 5C. Sowing is carried out in late March - early April in seedling containers.
Cuttings are carried out in September - November. Winter cuttings are also possible. Saplings are planted in late August or early spring. The depth of the planting pit is 70-80 cm. The optimum distance between plants is 1-1.5 m. The hemlock does not tolerate transplanting well.
Care
Hemlock is a moisture-loving crop, so regular watering is required. Spraying is encouraged, especially during prolonged droughts. Top dressing has a positive effect on the development of hemlock. For top dressing, it is recommended to use both organic and mineral fertilizers. Loosening and weeding is desirable. The hemlock does not grow rapidly, so systematic pruning is not required. For the winter, young plants are covered with spruce branches, which will prevent freezing of shoots and sunburn.
Application
Tsuga is an ornamental plant that looks great both in single and group plantings. The culture is sensitive to air pollution, this factor limits its use in urban landscaping, although it is a frequent visitor to public parks. Canadian hemlock is suitable for decorating the shores of artificial and natural reservoirs. Hemlock is also used to create a hedge, especially since the plants are easy to trim.
