A Comparison of Arborists’ and Horticulturists’ Preferences of Tsuga chinensis to T. canadensis in the Urban Landscape    (View PDF)

Jason E.E. Dampier, Richard W. Harper, Lora Schwartzberg, and R. Harvey Lemelin

Abstract: Recent research describing host resistance of hemlocks to the lethal, invasive insect hemlock woolly adelgid has suggested that Chinese hemlock (Tsuga chinensis) may be a suitable pest-resistant urban landscape replacement for eastern hemlock (T. canadensis). Presented here are the research findings of an in situ field questionnaire survey and participant observations. The study’s objective was to collect and evaluate arborists’ and other horticulturists’ perceptions and purchase preferences between eastern and Chinese hemlock to assess whether Chinese hemlock has potential to be accepted as an alternative landscape replacement for eastern hemlock. Fifty-five participants visually inspected both hemlock specimens and responded to questions about which one they would prefer to purchase, what their preferences would be in light of potential insect resistance, and the likelihood of fewer insecticide applications being required. Multiple cross-tabulations indicated that there was no statistical association (Fisher’s Exact Test, P > 0.05) between participant background (i.e., arborists versus others) and questions related to general purchase preference, and purchase preference if a specimen exhibited natural pest resistance or required less pesticides. Over three-quarters of participants were more inclined to purchase the specimen that possessed resistance to a serious pest. These findings suggest that Chinese hemlock may potentially serve as a hemlock woolly adelgid-resistant alternative to eastern hemlock in the landscape.

Keywords: Adelges tsugae; Arborist; Chinese Hemlock; Eastern Hemlock; Hemlock Woolly Adelgid; Horticulturist; Invasive Species; Participant Perceptions; Survey; Tsuga canadensis; Tsuga chinensis.

https://doi.org/10.48044/jauf.2015.005