Alberta spruce are sometimes used as Christmas trees because of their beautiful branches.
The dwarf Alberta spruce (Picea glauca "Conica") is native to some of the harshest North American land, stretching from parts of Alaska into Canada. Specifically, the dwarf Alberta spruce will only grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 2 through 7. This conifer is sensitive to pollution, salt and heat, prefers well-drained soil and cannot tolerate wet feet. For the best success in caring for this tree, avoid planting in urban areas and give the tree afternoon sun if your summer temperatures are especially hot. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Plant your dwarf Alberta spruce in an area with partial to full sun, depending on your summer temperatures and in well-drained soil.
2. Water the tree deeply for the first year as the roots are being established, giving the tree 1 gallon per square foot every week, or two weeks after rain. The dwarf Alberta spruce does better with rainwater, so use a rain barrel for water supply if at all possible.
3. Fertilize the tree in early spring before it has new growth. This gives the dwarf Alberta spruce any nutrient boost needed for attaining its seasonal growth.
4. Prune away any new growth with needles that are larger than the rest of the needles on the tree. These branches are called revertants and are lacking the dwarf genetic material. If left alone, they can take over the tree.
5. Check your tree for spider mites if you begin losing needles. Spider mites are a common pest for the dwarf Alberta spruce and tend to attack in damp spring weather when the tree is under stress from moist soil.
Tags: dwarf Alberta, dwarf Alberta spruce, Alberta spruce, Alberta spruce, summer temperatures