Hedges: Hemlock Hedge

Discussion in 'Gymnosperms (incl. Conifers)' started by canjmay, Jul 17, 2007.

  1. canjmay

    canjmay Member

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    I am a new member - newly retired and taking more of an interest in our garden. I have a Hemlock hedge that has white ash-like covering on the needles, particularly the old growth. I am told that it is caused by a mite of some sort but I cannot find any information on it and the control. I may be in the wrong website but I thought someone may have information for me.

    Thanks
    Jim
     
  2. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Check out Hemlock Woolly Adelgid.

    A photo would help to confirm if it is this or not.
     
  3. canjmay

    canjmay Member

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    I think you may be correct. I found other references to the adelgid and some research material, primarily from the east and eastern hemlock. I hope this is not the problem as I worry about the control. I have attached a photo and did not reduce it so you can have a good look at the problem.

    Thanks for your input and I look forward to any help on this.

    Jim
     

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  4. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Yep, that's HWA. It is damaging on Western Hemlock, but not usually lethal on it, the way it is on Eastern Hemlock. I'd agree with being cautious about control - some of the suggested methods could be very damaging to wildlife.
     
  5. canjmay

    canjmay Member

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    I will be careful. DO you have any suggestions? I have to research this a lot more but indications are a topical spray to start, probably in September or October. Ons suggeston is soap and oil - not sure about the tpe of soap or oil - sounds a bit like a dormant spray.

    Thanks for you help. I was told b a member of the forestry faculty that it is a mite that will not kill the tree. The only thing I found was HWA so I am sure you are right.

    Wish me luck

    Jim
     
  6. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    I hope that faculty member doesn't really think these are mites, that there was a misunderstanding. These are insects, similar to aphids. If this is a clipped hedge or otherwise with most foliage near the ground you might try taking a jet nozzle and hosing them down occasionally, if you have the time and patience for it.
     
  7. canjmay

    canjmay Member

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    Thanks - I will tell him!!

    More importantly, I will try the jet-nozzle-technique over the next month or so.
     

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