What is the growth rate of a Colorado blue spruce?
Colorado blue spruce, also called blue spruce (Picea pungens) grows at a slow to medium rate of less than 12 inches per year and up to 24 inches per year when young. It can take 35 to 50 years for a Colorado blue spruce to grow 30 to 50 feet.
Where to plant a blue spruce tree?
How to propagate blue spruce
- Soak seeds in water for 24 hours, then drain and place in a freezer bag
- Place in the fridge for 4-6 weeks, checking them weekly to check that they are not drying out
- In a cool greenhouse or cold frame, sow the seeds into 9cm pots filled with peat-free, multi-purpose compost. ...
- Keep the seedlings in a sheltered spot outside, potting on when necessary. ...
How do you plant a blue spruce tree?
Putting a Blue Spruce in Colorado
- Choose a site with full sun, loose draining soil, and plenty of elbow room.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and at least three times the width.
- Drop the spruce in the hole so that it’s at or just slightly above ground level.
- Back fill the hole with a 50/50 mixture of the dirt you dug up and added soil conditioner, compost, or a topsoil mix.
Where to buy blue spruce trees?
To order Blue Spruce seedlings by PHONE: We're glad to take your order by phone @ 231-544-6769 Phone orders can be charged to VISA or MasterCard accounts. To order Blue Spruce seedling by MAIL: For those who wish to order by mail or prefer to send a check, send orders to: Porcupine Hollow Farm 8593 W. State Rd. Central Lake, Mi. 4962 2
How can I make my Colorado blue spruce grow faster?
How can you make blue spruce grow faster? Make sure your blue spruce tree is planted in a location with lots of sunlight for at least half a day. You can also fertilize the soil around the plant with triple phosphate and potassium to help it grow faster.
How long does it take for a Colorado blue spruce tree to grow?
The Colorado blue spruce grows at a slow to medium rate, according to the Arbor Day Foundation, although it picks up a bit as it gets older. This blue spruce grows from 12 to 24 inches a year. So it will require 30 to 60 years for a Colorado blue spruce to grow from seed to 60 feet tall.
Are Colorado blue spruce slow growing?
Colorado blue spruce has a slow to medium growth rate, growing less than 12 to 24 inches annually.
How tall is a 5 year old blue spruce?
A 2ft tall-potted tree can be 5 ft tall in 5 years, in good soil, with adequate moisture, and weed and grass control around the base.
What is the fastest growing tree for privacy?
What are the fastest-growing trees for privacy? Hybrid poplar tops the list. It can grow upwards of five feet per year. The Leyland cypress, green giant arborvitae, and silver maple are all close seconds because they add about two feet to their height each year.
How far apart should I plant Colorado blue spruce?
Start your spacing at 16 feet apart to accomodate a mature spread of 15-20 feet. If you plant in rows, space your rows atleast 20 feet apart.
Do blue spruce need a lot of water?
Blue Spruce Care Although Colorado blue spruce is more drought tolerant than other spruces, it does need consistent water (from rain or irrigation) to thrive. Water regularly during the first season or two while the tree roots are getting established, then as needed during dry periods.
How often should I water my Colorado blue spruce?
Trees planted in an established lawn should, however, be watered 3 times per week. Trees planted in a landscape bed should be watered the same as your shrubs and evergreens. Groundcover should be watered every other day until they are established. They will need watering every day during hot weather.
How long do Colorado blue spruce trees live?
Growth and Yield- Blue spruce is apparently a long-lived tree, surviving up to 600 years or more. Diameter growth is slow; trees 10 to 13 cm (4 to 5 in) in d.b.h. may be 125 to 135 years old; at 46 to 56 cm (18 to 22 in), they may be 275 to 350 years of age (84).
Do blue spruce need full sun?
Blue spruce prefer an organic, moist soil in full sun but are adaptable to different conditions. It is more drought tolerant than other Picea species. While blue spruce can tolerate some shade, disease incidence and severity increases with the amount of shade trees receive.
What is the difference between Colorado blue spruce and baby blue spruce?
Description. Baby Blue is a more slender version of the Colorado Blue Spruce. It is grown from seed, not grafted like Baby Blue Eyes, thus, specimens will vary slightly in habit. This tree will, however, be consistent in its vibrant blue color.
How deep are blue spruce tree roots?
According to the U.S. Forest Service, blue spruce trees develop shallow roots after seed germinate, perhaps only 2 to 3 inches deep. This reveals that this tree species grows with a spreading, shallow root system.
What is the fastest growing spruce tree?
The fastest-growing spruce tree, according to the Arbor Day Foundation, is the triangular-shaped Norway spruce (Picea abies), which is part of many suburban home and rural farm landscapes throughout Europe, the United States and Canada.
Do blue spruce need a lot of water?
Blue Spruce Care Although Colorado blue spruce is more drought tolerant than other spruces, it does need consistent water (from rain or irrigation) to thrive. Water regularly during the first season or two while the tree roots are getting established, then as needed during dry periods.
What evergreen tree grows the fastest?
What are the Fastest Growing Evergreen Trees for Privacy? Thuja Green Giant is the number one choice in Fast-Growing privacy trees. At a rapid growth rate of 3 to 5 feet per year, that is no surprise.
How often should I water my Colorado blue spruce?
Trees planted in an established lawn should, however, be watered 3 times per week. Trees planted in a landscape bed should be watered the same as your shrubs and evergreens. Groundcover should be watered every other day until they are established. They will need watering every day during hot weather.
How long does it take for a blue spruce to grow?
Colorado blue spruce, also called blue spruce ( Picea pungens) grows at a slow to medium rate of less than 12 inches per year and up to 24 inches per year when young. It can take 35 to 50 years for a Colorado blue spruce to grow 30 to 50 feet. Its mature size of 50 feet tall and 20 feet wide in most gardens is smaller than its size in the wild, where it can reach 135 feet tall and spread 30 feet wide. It grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 2 through 7.
What is the best soil for Colorado Blue Spruce?
To grow best, soil at the site should be well-draining, and the soil pH should be mildly acidic, with a pH of 5.0 to 7.0. Growth of Colorado blue spruce slows in heavy, clay soils, and in soils with a pH of 8.0 or higher, notes Montana State University Extension.
How tall do Colorado blue spruces grow?
Colorado blue spruces have a slow to medium growth rate. You can expect a height increase of less than 12 inches to 24 inches annually. In the wild, it can grow up to 75 feet. In parks and gardens, it typically grows 30 to 60 feet high and 15 to 20 feet wide.
When was the Colorado Blue Spruce tree discovered?
They were first discovered in 1862 growing on the Rocky Mountains, but are now one of the most widely planted landscape trees. The Colorado Blue Spruce's silvery-blue needles are prickly to the touch and have a strong, fresh, piney smell. Its pyramidal shape, foliage color, and wonderful smell make this plant a classic choice for a Christmas tree.
How tall does P. pungens grow?
P. pungens 'Montgomery': A dwarf variety that grows 5 to 6 feet high and has dense, blue needles
What is a blue spruce tree?
Back to Top. Colorado blue spruces, resplendent with silver-blue-green needles, are coniferous evergreen trees that are members of the pine family. The official state tree of Colorado, these spruces are native to Rocky Mountain states in the U.S.
What type of soil do sage trees like?
However, the trees can adapt to a variety of soils, whether acidic, loamy, sandy, or clay. When it comes to soil pH, these trees prefer a range between 6.0 and 7.5, but they're able to tolerate extremely acidic or alkaline soils.
Where are blue spruces native to?
The official state tree of Colorado, these spruces are native to Rocky Mountain states in the U.S. They were first discovered in 1862 growing on the Rocky Mountains, but are now one of the most widely planted landscape trees.
Can a Colorado blue spruce survive in hot weather?
The Colorado blue spruce is tolerant of cold weather. It can tolerate heat to a point. However, it will not thrive in extremely hot and humid weather conditions.
How fast does a blue spruce tree grow?
The Blue Spruce grows at what is considered to be a “medium” pace – or somewhere between 12 to 24″ a year. It may seem like it grows faster earlier on and then it will slow down quite a bit, according to Hunker.
What is the Colorado blue spruce?
All About The Colorado Blue Spruce. One of our favorite trees is the Colorado Blue Spruce and not just because it is the state tree. It is also just a gorgeous tree that can be used in so many different ways. If you are considering adding a tree to your landscaping, there are some things that you will need to know about this tree ...
How long does it take for a tree to grow?
It will often take somewhere between 30 to 50 years for the tree to reach full height. In that time, it will likely grow in fits and spurts. Your trees should be important to you. In fact, the trees in your yard may be nondescript, but that can have a huge impact on your life.
When was the blue spruce tree discovered?
It was not until 1862 that this spectacular species was discovered growing in enchanted meadows and stream sides high up in the Rocky Mountains. Once found, the fame of this blue spruce spread quickly, and today it is one of our most widely planted landscape trees as well as the state tree of Colorado.”.
Is the Colorado Blue Spruce a good tree?
The Arbor Day Foundation explains the lore around this tree much better than we ever could: “The Colorado blue spruce is such a delight that nature seems to have kept it a well-guarded secret for a very long time.
Can you plant a Colorado blue spruce from seed?
Most people will buy a balled-root tree and plant it that way. However, it isn’ t unheard of for a tree to come from seed in certain environments. Often, they will be planted in a line so that they can form a sort of windbreak.
Do spruce trees need sun?
They need to be planted in full sun to partial sun. They will be able to tolerate low sun, but it is better to plant in as much sun as possible. You need to keep the soil moist and well-watered for a long time after you plant the tree. You do want to avoid water-logging the roots of these trees, according to The Spruce.
What color is a Colorado blue spruce tree?
New foliage emerges bright green-blue. As they age, the needles of this evergreen fade into a subtle, yet stunning silvery blue. Pinecones serve as food for wildlife, while birds find refuge in this trees layered, dense branches. The lush Colorado Blue Spruce touts a classic Christmas tree shape. The uniform, pyramidal habit offers a clean, attractive appearance that looks great in any landscape.
What type of soil does Colorado Blue Spruce like?
The Colorado Blue Spruce thrives in full to part sun and adapts to any soil that is well drained. A neutral to acidic soil is best. If you know you have an alkaline soil choose an acidic fertilizer like Espoma's Hollytone. After planting, adding a layer of 2 to 3 inches of mulch will help keep the soil moist.
How tall is a sage tree?
1-2 feet per year to a height of 60 feet at maturity. This evergreen is considered a slow to medium rate grower.
Can you prune a Colorado spruce tree?
The Colorado Spruce is deer and drought tolerant and only rarely encounters issues with pests and disease. There is no need to prune this low maintenance tree.
Can blue spruce be acid loving?
The Blue Spruce is wind, cold, and deer resistant. When properly cared for, the Blue Spruce rarely has issues with pests and disease. If you notice brown dry spots on your Spruce Spider Mites may be the culprit.
What zone do blue spruce trees grow in?
The colorado blue spruce can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 2–7. View Map
What is the state tree of Colorado?
The Colorado blue spruce is such a delight that nature seems to have kept it a well-guarded secret for a very long time. It was not until 1862 that this spectacular species was discovered growing in enchanted meadows and stream sides high up in the Rocky Mountains. Once found, the fame of this blue spruce spread quickly, and today it is one of our most widely planted landscape trees as well as the state tree of Colorado. When writing Handbook on Conifers in 1969, Henry Tuescher, curator emeritus of the Montreal Botanical Garden, called the Colorado blue spruce one of the five finest conifers. Tuescher gave no reasons for this honor except for the tree's exceptional beauty.
How much sun does a sage tree need?
Full sun is the ideal condition for this tree, meaning it should get at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day.
How big does a sage tree get?
Rated one of the most popular evergreens. It grows well while young and matures at 50-75'; 10-'20' spread in the landscape, up to 135' and 35' spread in the wild. (zones 2-7) price Pricing Information.
Is a blue spruce a state tree?
Once found, the fame of this blue spruce spread quickly, and today it is one of our most widely planted landscape trees as well as the state tree of Colorado. When writing Handbook on Conifers in 1969, Henry Tuescher, curator emeritus of the Montreal Botanical Garden, called the Colorado blue spruce one of the five finest conifers.
What is a Colorado blue spruce?
Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens) is a beautiful native American conifer. This extremely rustic silvery blue tree reaches the height of 9 – 21 m (30-70 ft) in its region of origin. Nice bluish green color, accentuated by the sharply pointed foliage makes it a perfect conifer for open landscapes and large backyards. Dwarf forms of blue spruce are also available that reaches only between 1.5 to 4.5 m (5-15 ft) tall and are suitable for small gardens, patios, and terraces.
How long does it take for a blue spruce tree to germinate?
These cones drop their seeds in spring. Blue spruce seeds require a considerable period of light to germinate: 14 to 16 hours per day. If the length of light falls below 12 hours a day, they become dormant.
What causes needle cast on blue spruce?
Use a magnifying glass to examine the needles of your blue spruce for signs of Rhizosphaera needle cast (Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii), a fungus that causes needle cast disease . It pushes through the stomata of the affected needles and looks like fuzzy black spots.
Where does the Colorado Blue Spruce tree come from?
Colorado blue spruce is a Native American tree that originated on stream banks and crags of the western United States. This sturdy tree is grown in farmlands, pastures and large landscapes as a windbreak and doubles as a nesting site for birds. Dwarf species are attractive in home landscapes where they look great in shrub borders, ...
How tall is a Colorado spruce tree?
The species grows up to 60 feet (18 m.) tall and looks best in open, arid landscapes, while smaller cultivars that grow 5 to 15 feet (1.5 to 5.5 m.) tall are right at home in lush gardens. Continue reading for information on how to grow a Colorado blue spruce.
What color are spruce cones?
The tree produces 2 to 4 inch (5 to 10 cm.) brown cones that fall to the ground in autumn. They are distinguished from other spruce trees by the bluish color of the needles, which can be quite striking on a sunny day.
What are dwarf trees?
Dwarf species are attractive in home landscapes where they look great in shrub borders, as backdrops for borders and as specimen trees. Short, sharp needles that are square in shape and very stiff and sharp attach to the tree singly rather than in bunches, like pine needles.
