Saving Winter-Burned Hemlocks from Further Decline

Five hemlocks suffered severe winter burn. The owner applied Bayer Tree & Shrub (possibly over-concentrated), then added fertilizer spikes. Trees show new growth but look terrible—brown needles, drooping tops. Concerned about root growth hormone use.

Stop All Treatments

Rooting hormones are for new plantings or cuttings, not stressed mature trees. Fertilizer spikes can burn roots. The insecticide likely didn't harm the trees.

Recovery Plan

• Cease all chemicals and fertilizers.
• Water deeply (1 inch weekly) if no rain—use pan method.
• Mulch 3 inches, keep off trunks.
• Monitor; winter burn often resolves with time.

Let the trees redirect energy to root recovery and new growth.