Growing Picea (Spruce)

Pronunciation: py-see'-ah

A valuable genus of evergreen trees, Picea offers a wide variety of sizes and shapes, from towering columnar giants to conical and prostrate forms to round dwarfs. They have resinous bark, whorled branches, and needle-like leaves in many shades of green and blue. Their texture and color adds interest to shrub borders, and individual plants make attractive specimens in the home landscape.

Light: Picea grows best in full sun.

Soil: Plant in moist, well-drained soil, preferably with an acidic or neutral pH. Turn a healthy layer of organic matter into the soil before planting.

Watering: The key to getting your new tree off to a good start is moisture. Water thoroughly after planting, and keep a close eye on the plant over the following week. Then, give it a good soaking once a week during summer, unless rainfall is plentiful (more than 1" per week). Established plants can generally get by on less water, but most grow best if the soil remains evenly moist. Please note that more is not better. When in doubt, don't water.

Continuing Care: Once established, Picea is tolerant of wind, heat, cold, and drought. Plants require little or no pruning to retain their natural form, but can be touched up in spring as needed by removing the tips of branches after the new growth has formed.