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