Should you trim Tsuga Canadensis (Canadian Hemlock) after one year of planting?
Tsuga canadensis is quite an unusual subject for a hedge but there’s no reason why it shouldn’t do well —— presume this is in England. Although Tsugas will stand extreme cold they do not like cold winds which will ” burn” the tips of the leaves. Regarding “cutting back” —any hedge should be trimmed right from the first year. Choose the height and width you desire and clip the hedge to those chosen. If the hedge has not yet reached the height you desire then clip the sides and leave the top. I would cut the plants in April, so that the plants are not affected by cold winds. The ideal height for a hedge is about 5 ft so that the top is easily reached but if you need more privacy then let ypur Tsugas go taller. Mulch in Spring with spent hops or leaf -mold or woodchip.
