Hemlocks And Adelgid Insects

Q: Have researchers developed a hemlock that is resistant to woolly adelgid insects? Would you recommend not planting hemlocks? I need tall thick screening in an area that gets some sun and shade to block noise and view. 

A: There is not one with resistance to these sap-sucking, death-dealing insects. Millions of hemlocks have died in the forests of north Georgia. That said, on a residential site you could plant a hemlock and then monitor it for insect invasion. Adelgids can be killed with a systemic insecticide drench. There are only a few infested trees in the Atlanta area. Look for a white powdery coating on branch tips in late spring.

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