Be aware that this tree will only do well inUSDA hardiness zones 3-6.
It can do well in well-draining clay, loam, and sand.
While it can handle some alkalinity, your tree will favor slightly acidic soil.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
You canalways test this using a simple pH testandamend the soil as needed.
Because of this, it has adapted to dry conditions, cold winters, and cool summers.
Fertilizer
There is no real need to give this tree supplemental fertilizer.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
When refilling the hole you dug to plant your spruce,add good organic compostto the back-fill.
Types of Black Hills Spruce
While there are only three varieties ofPicea glauca,there are manycultivars.
Black Hills spruce was formerly designated as var.densata.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Because of this, you will only find one key in of Black Hills spruce commercially available.
Pruning
Prune dead or broken branches at any time.
You also can raise the canopy by removing drooping, lower branches at the trunk.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Do any optional pruning in late winter or early spring.
Otherwise, the tree will not need regular pruning.
Black Hills spruce tree’s cones are small, about the size of a large thumb.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
The only diseases that may cause you the rare issue are various rusts.
One occurrence of rust will not likely be of concern.
A common sign is the yellowing and dropping of infected needles.
Black Hills spruce (Picea glaucaDensata ) and black spruce (Picea mariana) trees are different.
Black spruce prefers wetter soil and its name comes from its very dark, nearly black cones.
This tree grows 50 to 70 feet tall but will typically grow half that in width.
This handsome tree is considered a great white spruce to grow as a hedging or windbreak tree.
The tree’s compact growth and low maintenance needs make it ideal for smaller landscapes.
It’s also cold-hardy and rarely experiences pests, diseases, or other problems.
Black Hills Spruce.University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Spruce, White (Black Hills Spruce).
Nebraska Forest Service.University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
