How tall do western hemlocks grow?
By James Bradley
How tall do western hemlocks grow?
GENERAL BOTANICAL CHARACTERISTICS : Western hemlock is a large, native, evergreen tree. At maturity it is generally 100 to 150 feet (30-46 m) tall and 2 to 4 feet (0.6-1.2 m) in trunk diameter [72]. On best sites, old-growth trees reach diameters greater than 3.3 feet (1 m); maximum diameter is about 9 feet (3 m).
Where should I plant western hemlock?
Western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla), also called Pacific hemlock and west coast hemlock, thrives in humid areas of the Pacific coast and northern Rocky Mountains. Its potential for management as an efficient producer of fiber has long been recognized.
How fast does western hemlock grow?
Initial growth is slow; 2-year-old seedlings are commonly less than 20 cm (8 in) tall. Once established, seedlings in full light may have an average growth rate of 60 cm (24 in) or more annually (Silvics of North America 1990).
Are western hemlocks poisonous?
All parts of poison-hemlock (leaves, stem, fruit, and root) are poisonous. Leaves are especially poisonous in the spring, up to the time the plant flowers. Signs of poisoning usually appear within an hour after an animal eats the plant. Animals die from respiratory paralysis in 2 to 3 hours.
Do hemlocks grow fast?
This tree grows at a slow to medium rate, with height increases of anywhere from less than 12″ to 24″ per year.
How deep are hemlock tree roots?
Under ideal growing conditions, seedlings of eastern hemlock develop slowly. First-year seedlings may grow only 25 to 38 mm (1 to 1.5 in) in height and the roots extend less than 13 mm (0.5 in) into the soil.
Where do hemlock roots like to grow?
The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soil. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It requires moist soil.
Can western hemlocks grow in shade?
Light. Unlike many large trees, Canadian hemlocks will tolerate (but do not need) quite a bit of shade. Their sunlight requirements thus give you a lot of flexibility with them, as you can grow them as anything from full-sun plants to shade plants.
How deep do hemlock tree roots go?
