If you’ve been heartbroken by the loss of a hemlock tree (Tsuga spp. and cvs., Zones 3–8) to woolly adelgid, you’re not alone. Researchers at the U.S. National Arboretum have been working for decades on developing hybrids that are woolly adelgid resistant, with success originating from a controlled cross made in 1992 between the susceptible native Carolina hemlock (T. caroliniana) and resistant Chinese hemlock (T. chinensis). The first cultivar being released to the horticulture trade is ‘Traveler’, which matures into a striking specimen tree and can also be used to create a large informal screen. There is also a second similar cultivar being released named ‘Crossroads.’ While neither is available to consumers yet, keep an eye out for them. They will be game changers for hemlock lovers in Zones 6 and 7.

‘Traveler’ hemlock

Tsuga ‘Traveler’

Zones: 6–7

Size: 30 feet tall and 18 feet wide

Conditions: Full sun to partial shade; moist, well-drained soil

Native range: Hybrid

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

ARS Telescoping Long Reach Pruner

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Telescopes from 4 to 7'. Cut and Hold (160) Blades. Drop forged blades for unsurpassed long lasting sharpness. Lightweight, 2.3 lbs., for continued use. Perfectly balanced for easy pruning.

Buy at Amazon

Wagner's 52003 Classic Blend Wild Bird Food, 6-Pound Bag

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Classic wild bird food uses the highest quality grains to attract backyard wild Birds. A high-quality mix containing Millet, milo, cracked corn and Sunflower for a wide range of wild birds to enjoy. Perfect for tube, hopper, or platform feeders. Great to feed in all seasons! Perfect for the winter, when seeds are scarce; spring and summer for hatchlings; and autumn to give energy to migrating birds. This seed will help you fill your yard with birds such as Jays, cardinals, doves, Juncos, finches, goosebeaks, any many more.

Buy at Amazon

Planting in a Post-Wild World: Designing Plant Communities for Resilient Landscapes

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Featuring gorgeous photography and advice for landscapers, Planting in a Post-Wild World by Thomas Rainer and Claudia West is dedicated to the idea of a new nature—a hybrid of both the wild and the cultivated—that can nourish in our cities and suburbs.

Buy at Amazon