Colorado Blue Spruce
Picea pungens
Learn how to care for Colorado Blue Spruce along with its history and classification details.
Hardiness Zone: 2-7
Soil Type: Acidic, loamy, moist, rich, sandy, well-drained and clay soils
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Annual or Perennial: Evergreen
Type: Tree
History: 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 to Care for Colorado Blue Spruce
Common questions and details on how to care for Colorado Blue Spruce.
How do I plant Colorado Blue Spruce
Dig a hole that is shallower than the root ball and at least twice the width. If you’re planting several Blue Spruces together for privacy fencing, ensure you space them at least 10 to 20 feet apart. Spread 3 to 4 inches of mulch around the base of the Spruce.
The Colorado blue spruce will grow 1-2 feet per year, reaching 60 ft in height.
When is the best time to plant?
The best time to plant is in the spring or fall.
How do I propagate Colorado Blue Spruce?
Take cuttings from the tree in mid-summer. It can take up to 2 months for the cutting to take root, so you may want to include a growing hormone to help the cutting grow. Grow the cutting in a cool and humid location for optimal results.
Can I grow Colorado Blue Spruce in a pot?
Yes, you can grow the spruce in a pot, you will want to transfer to the ground once the tree starts to mature.
How much should I water Colorado Blue Spruce?
Water the spruce at least once a week. During warmer months the tree should require additional watering. Check about an inch down in the soil to test moisture. 1 Inch should be moist.
How do I care for Colorado Blue Spruce with fertilizer?
Fertilize each year during spring.
When do Colorado Blue Spruce bloom?
Chives will bloom in the summer.
Should I plant any companion plants?
Colorado Blue Spruce companion plants are based on complimentary colors of purple, silver, and obsidian. Some examples include: silver-leaved and violet-flowered Russian sage, catmint, and ‘Black Scallop’ ajuga.
Colorado Blue Spruce Symbolizes
In Greek mythology, the Spruce tree was dedicated to Artemis, the Goddess of the Moon, Hunting, Nature and protector of women. The Greeks suggested that the enduring Spruce tree represented constant, eternal life and was labelled ‘The Tree of Birth’; its scented evergreen needles signifying resilience and strength.
