White spruce

Picea glauca

The White spruce is native to the northern temperate and boreal forests in North America, Southern and Central Canada and all the way down to New Hampshire and Maine where it is only just cold and moist enough to support growth.

A large evergreen conifer with attractive needle-like foliage which is glaucous blue-green above and has attractive new growth. The cones are aesthetic with a slender conical-shape.

Origin and climate

The White Spruce is found in the northern temperate forests of North America, Central Canada right down to Maine where it is only just cold enough to support it.

It is one of the hardiest of conifers and will grow in temperatures down to -50 degrees celsius.

As an exotic species white spruce is widespread but uncommon. It was introduced into England and parts of Europe around the year 1700, and into Denmark about 1790, and into Tasmania and Ceylon shortly before 1932.

Growth

Height: The mature tree normally grows from 15 – 30 metres tall usually on the smaller side in home gardens and can be kept in pots and trained.

Ideal Growth Conditions: White Spruce prefers full sun or light dappled shade. It grows well in humus rich, moist, and well-drained soil. This tree will grow best in cool climates and will struggle in wet areas. In warm humid areas the White pine will struggle with fungal diseases.

Tending and care

The White spruce will grow in a wide range of soils from those high in dolomite through to sandy poor soils. However, growth is slower when planted in poor soils or particularly wet environments.

Plant in the ground, or upsize pots in winter to reduce stress.

Uses: Ornamental for gardens, tree lines and windbreaks, specimen Christmas tree.

Fresh-cut tree care:  Treat your fresh-cut tree like you would fresh-cut flowers, when you first arrive home recut the base of the tree and place it in clean water. Check the water level daily, ensuring the stem is fully submerged. Want to give your tree some extra TLC? Spritz with water daily