I am planting 50 canadian hemlock saplings about 1 foot tall. I am planting these to be a 100ft hedge. If anyone has any instructions or tips on planting canadian hemlock saplings, it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

Are these bare root or potted?

Newt

 

Canadian Helmock will be bare root.

 

Here's how to plant bare root saplings.
http://forestry.about.com/library/weekly/aa102003a.htm
http://www.taunton.com/finegardening...x?nterms=74870

Newt

 

I have read conflicting info on the internet about whether to use fertilizer and peat moss. Also can I use top soil?

 

Seedlings are best planted when dormant. Soil should be damp and well-drained. Remove vegetation in three foot area and turn soil before digging hole. Loose soil will help roots get established.

Most tend not to recommend fertilizing until after six months. If fertilizer is used, then it should be slow release. Top soil or amendments are not recommended. It won't be long until roots extend beyond amendments and reach the native soil. It's best that they begin to adjust to the soil as they become established. Do mulch to conserve moisture and protect the tender roots. Store seedlings in cool place and keep soil damp (not wet) until all are planted.

If in doubt, contact your local Dept. of Forestry.

http://www.forestry.ky.gov/programs/...ant+a+Tree.htm

 

The area that I am planning on planting needs some leveling first. Can I just go with fill dirt for my leveling and planting purposes?

 

Not all fill dirt is the same. Remember that it is subsoil and may consist primarily of shale, rock, and subsoil. It is usually used where stable soil that compacts well is needed. Screened fill dirt would be free of debris and rocks. There are multiple grades of top soil available that can help with the budget. Top soil contains organic material which is necessary for growing plants. Check with your local landscape supplier.

http://www.na.fs.fed.us/spfo/pubs/si...canadensis.htm

 

I agree that it's best not to add fertilizer when planting and the use of peat moss has become an issue as well. This first site is from Kew Gardens in England.
http://www.kew.org/ksheets/peat.html#help
http://www.gardening.cornell.edu/fac...rgmatter/#peat

It's best to let the roots move out into the native soil. I would recommend screened topsoil if you need to add soil.

Newt