How much water should I give the trees?
Colorado Blue Spruce like moist, but not saturated soils. A
moist soil will hold it's shape if you roll it into a ball in your
hand. A saturated soil will drip water when squeezed. The moisture content of the soil in the root zone should be monitored to gain insight on how much to water and how frequently to water. Ten gallons of water can make a significant difference to the moisture content of a rootball.
Should I fertilize?
Yes, newly transplanted trees will need phosphates for root development.
Phosphate deficiencies are common in the prairie soils. An established
method to increase this nutrient is to apply manure. Since Spruce trees
are sensitive to nitrogen, an odor free composted manure should be used.
Applications of compost can be repeated every two or three years around the drip line to encourage healthy growth.
Should I cut off the top of the tree?
Newly transplanted trees will need two or three years to recover.
Once the tree is growing vigorously a pruning program can be started.
If the leading branch is growing too fast, you can train a new leader by propping up a lateral and tyeing it to the existing leader. The existing leader can be pruned in the second year after the lateral has proved itself to become a suitable leader.
This method allows you to maintain a straight tree trunk.
How far apart should I plant my trees?
There are some 35 year old Blue Spruce on my farm and they vary in
width from 12 to 15 feet. I recommend spacing the trees 15 to 20 feet
apart. Staggering a second row can produce an immediate screen.
Are there any local bylaws?
Yes the M.D. of Rocky View has a bylaw restricting the planting of
shelterbelts (2 or more rows of trees) near the roads to avoid snow
drifting.
Should I stake the trees?
If the trees are exposed to high winds, then yes, they should be staked.
