Norway Spruce

Picea abies

Quick Care Guide

Prune: Prune to maintain shape; remove dead or damaged branches
Sunlight: Needs 6+ hours of full sun
Water: Weekly, keep soil moist but well-drained
Fertilize: Fertilize once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer
Leaves: Dark green, needle-like leaves
Flowers: Small, cone-shaped flowers that appear in spring

Pruning

Norway spruce trees benefit from occasional pruning to maintain a healthy, attractive shape. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches throughout the year to prevent disease spread. If the tree is young, you may also trim to maintain a balanced structure. Be mindful not to over-prune, as this can affect the tree’s natural growth pattern.

Watering

Norway spruces need consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Water deeply once a week, or when the top inch of soil is dry. Make sure the soil is well-draining, as standing water can cause root rot. They do best in moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate some drought once established.

Leaves

The Norway spruce has dark green, needle-like leaves arranged in spirals along the branches. These needles are stiff, with a pointed tip, and they can grow up to 1.5 inches long. The tree retains its needles year-round, providing an evergreen appearance.

Sunlight

Norway spruces thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The more sun they receive, the better their growth and overall health. However, they can tolerate partial shade in areas where full sun is not available.

Fertilization

Fertilize Norway spruce trees once a year in early spring, before new growth begins. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage strong growth. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this can promote tender growth that is more vulnerable to cold damage in winter.