Hemlock Trees – Fertilizing

Q: We have five-year old hemlock trees. How do I fertilize them?

A: Hemlocks do best with slow-release fertilizers like cottonseed meal or composted chicken manure. For cottonseed meal (6-2-1 analysis), spread eight pounds per 100 sq. ft. over the root zone of the trees. Early spring is the best time to fertilize, just before new growth begins.