Question
Im looking to buy the colorado blue spruce for a wind/privacy barrier on a one acre lot in northwest indiana. I found a place I can order online in qty for 3'-4' trees ( i need approx 10-15 trees)for a reasonable price with no guarantee at all (except for healthy when delivered) the trees are state inspected (per the website), but would like to know how many times have plantings failed (that you have experience with)It would only cost me between $100 - $150 for the trees and I will plant them myself. Also, are there any issues with planting near the septic tank and/or leach field (short term or long term)?

Thank you in advance for your help.

Answer
The time of the year will effect the planting failures. The best time is early spring or fall. During the summer months the weather is drier and hotter causing the trees to suffer from lack of water.

Any tree planted on a septic line is not good. Root will find water and if there is a leak in the line the roots will enter. I would keep the trees away from the tank and lines maybe 20 feet.





Here is some information on growing spruce.

http://msuextension.org/publications/YardandGarden/MT199809AG.pdf