Canadian Hemlock – One of the Best Privacy Screens for Cold Areas  

If you are looking for a stunning, focal evergreen that can also serve as a dense privacy screen, you might want to consider the Canadian Hemlock (Eastern Hemlock/Tsuga Canadensis). This native tree has a pyramidal shape and fine-textured, fragrant needles that are dark green on top and silvery-white underneath. 

The Canadian Hemlock can grow up to 25 feet tall in the wild but can be kept smaller by pruning. It is extremely cold hardy, growing well in zones 3 to 7. This makes the tree one of the best choices for privacy in cold areas. The hedge can thrive in full sun or shade, as long as it has moist, acidic, and well-drained soil. 

Canadian Hemlock is tolerant of pests and diseases, and its roots are not invasive. It provides cover and a home for wildlife, and its small cones feed many birds. It is a versatile and graceful tree that can enhance any landscape.

Features 

• A cold hardy and majestic evergreen that can grow in zone 3 – makes a perfect privacy screen for cold areas. 
• A versatile and graceful tree that can enhance any landscape.
• Tolerates heavy pruning and has non-invasive roots.
• Eco-friendly and wildlife-friendly, with fragrant and soft foliage.
• Has a loose pyramidal shape with cascading branches.
• Adapts to full sun and shade and prefers moist, acidic soil.
• Responds well to balanced, slow-release fertilizer or Hollytone.

Canadian Hemlock Planting and Maintenance 

1. Plant Canadian Hemlock in spring or fall, or in winter if no frost, or in summer if mild (zones 2-5).
2. Choose a site with full to part sun and well-drained soil.
3. Prefer a neutral to acidic soil and use an acidic fertilizer like Espoma's Hollytone if needed.
4. Mulch 2 inches around the tree but not touching the trunk.
5. Water deeply twice a week for the first 1-2 months, then only when soil is dry.
6. Fertilize at planting and every early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.

The Canadian Hemlock is among our favorite privacy screens for cold areas and is an absolute favorite for many homeowners. With the right care and maintenance, this hedge won’t disappoint.