Yahoo Finance How to Grow and Care for Dwarf Alberta Spruce
This low-maintenance evergreen tree is great for adding height to your landscaping.
Meindert van der Haven/Getty Images
Dwarf Alberta spruce is a cone-shaped evergreen often used as a miniature Christmas tree or to add height and variety to landscaping. This dwarf variety tree typically reaches a mature height of about 8-10 feet, and while it can be grown indoors, it'll likely outgrow your space so it's best suited for cooler, outdoor climates. While the trees are slow growers—only growing about 2-4 inches a year—they can live for 50 years or more in the right conditions. Keep reading for all the basics on how to grow and care for dwarf Alberta spruce.
Related: Yes, Trees Can Boost Your Property Value—Here Are 10 Varieties to Consider
Dwarf Alberta Spruce Care Tips
Dwarf Alberta spruce is a popular landscaping pick for its aromatic foliage, classic shape, and reliable nature. Luckily, the tree is low maintenance when established, but it does require some basic care to thrive.
Light
Dwarf Alberta spruce does best in full sun, but it can tolerate some shade. Provide these trees with an eastern or northern exposure for the best results. If you live in a hot climate, choose a spot where the plant will receive shade for at least part of the day.
Soil and Water
Plant dwarf Alberta spruce in moist, well-draining soil. A neutral to acidic soil is best.
Water your tree when the top three inches of soil are dry—but avoid overwatering and these plants don't do well in soggy soil.
If growing dwarf Alberta spruce in containers, you will need to water a bit more often. Try watering about once a week or so to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Temperature and Humidity
Dwarf Alberta spruce grows best in USDA Hardiness zones 3-6, but it can also survive warmer climates with the right attention and care. The trees do best in low-humidity environments, but it can withstand a range of weather conditions rather well, including high wind, heat, and cold.
Fertilizer
You can fertilize your dwarf Alberta spruce when planting initially—and, after that, once a year in early spring. (It's important to know your soil type to choose the right fertilizer for your plant.) Once the tree is mature, no fertilizer is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do dwarf Alberta spruce grow?
Since dwarf Alberta spruce only grow about 2-4 inches per year, it can take the tree 25-30 years to reach it's mature height of around 10 feet.
Are dwarf Alberta spruce deer resistant?
Yes, dwarf Alberta spruce are deer-resistant—and drought-tolerant as well! So you can rely on this plant to stick around for quite a while.
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