The best method for preventing destruction of your spruces and hemlocks by these insects is early detection and constant attention. Many gardeners prefer the high-pressure steam bath for their Alberta Spruces. Using a high-pressure hose, mites are dislodged from the spruces, but so will everything else if you are not careful. The next most popular savior for both spruces and hemlocks is insecticide soaps. These soaps are available at any gardening store and are typically easy to use.
Horticultural oil is just as popular and effective.
Both soaps and oil suffocate the insects, but are gentle on the rest of the ecosystem living in your trees. Instructions should be followed exactly as misuse could ruin the trees quicker than the insects. Hemlocks height and dense foliage make home care difficult. Some of the worst infestation may be in the tree s top canopy, far out of reach for the average gardener. Furthermore, the hemlock s dense foliage prevents penetration of soaps and oils usually applied with standard garden hoses.