How do I grow and care for a Norway spruce?

Answer

Picea abies, the Norway spruce is largely restricted to the cooler regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Its native habitat is in northern and central Europe (Ural Mountains to the Balkan Peninsula to Switzerland, Norway and northern Finland), growing in extended forests, in plains and in the mountains. It was introduced to North America in colonial times.

It grows particularly well in the harsher climate of the Midwest and Eastern United States. Norway spruce is hardy to zone 3 to 7 (survives but is not well-adapted to Zone 8 conditions). It's habit of growth is pyramidal with pendulous branchlets; stiff when young, graceful at maturity. The rate of growth is medium to fast, especially in youth and may reach almost 200 feet high at maturity.

Transplant this tree, balled and burlapped, in large sizes (3 to 4' and greater) into moist, sandy acid, well-drained soil. It can also be planted in most average soils provided adequate moisture is available, especially in the early years of establishment. Plants become thin and ragged in heavy soil. Plant in full sun or, perhaps, very light shade in the south edge of its range.

Prune in early spring either by removing a selected branch or, if a hedge is desired, by pruning the young growth.  Picea abies is susceptible to red spider, spruce gall aphid, budworm and borers.

Courtesy of the NYBG Plant Information Service

  • Last Updated Feb 02, 2021
  • Views 1416
  • Answered By Anita Finkle

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