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Home > Plant Care Guide > Norway Spruce

How to Care for Norway Spruce

The fastest-growing of all spruces, the norway spruce (Picea abies) makes for a good roosting spot for owls and hawks. Its wood is used for paper, construction lumber, and musical instruments, and its needles can be used to brew spruce beer. It is also a popular choice for Christmas trees.

Symbolism

Endurance, courage, protection, optimism, longevity

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Basic Care Guide

Water

After transplanting norway spruce, water consecutively 5-7 times, once every 5-7 days. Mix a little rooting powder in the water; this will help the roots grow. During daily care, keep the soil moist but avoid leaving standing water, as this may cause the roots to rot. In general, water once every 10 days. If the leaves soften and droop, increase the watering frequency. The amount of watering can be adjusted depending on the weather conditions.

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What is the best way to water my Norway spruce?

If you decide to water your Norway spruce, you will be happy to find that it is a straightforward task. One of the easiest ways to water this tree is by simply turning on your garden hose and using it to soak the soil slowly. Your garden hose is the ideal watering tool to use for mature Norway spruce trees, as large specimens may need a high volume of water during each watering. However, for smaller trees, you may get by by using a watering can or some other smaller watering tool. Also, you should try to avoid overhead watering as excessive moisture on this plant’s leaves can lead to disease, especially when the tree is young.

What should I do if I water my Norway spruce too much or too little?

At times, overwatering can be the result of poor soils. Mainly, if the soil in which your Norway spruce grows does not allow water to drain effectively, the plant will likely begin to decline. If this is the case, you should either amend the soil to improve its drainage characteristics or transplant your Norway spruce to a more favorable growing location. If you grow your Norway spruce in a pot, this can also mean you may need to repot your plant with looser soils in a container that allows for better drainage. An overwatered plant may also contract diseases, which you should try to treat immediately. For an underwatered Norway spruce, the remedy is quite simple. Begin watering more often, and soon your plant will bounce back and return to full health.

The easiest way to tell if you have overwatered your Norway spruce is to observe the plant’s foliage. Specifically, looking at the new growth will give the clearest sign of whether this plant suffers from too much moisture. An overwatered Norway spruce may produce new growth, but that new growth may be discolored or prone to easy breakage. Another sign that the soil for your Norway spruce is too moist is if you notice standing water or that water is not draining quickly in your plant’s growing area. Underwatered Norway spruce trees will also have symptoms present in the foliage. In this case, the leaves may become sparse, brown. Usually, Norway spruce can grow well with rainfulls. If you see such symptoms on your plant, you should consider if there has been too much rain recently or constantly high temperatures, which will help you to make the correct judgment.

How often should I water my Norway spruce?

A mature Norway spruce does not need much water at all. In most instances, this tree will become drought tolerant and survive off of nothing more than rainfall. At most, you’ll need to water this plant about once per week during the hottest months of the year, but during other seasons, you probably won’t need to water it at all. The exception to that rule is if you are dealing with a plant that has been newly planted. If that is the case, you should water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture and help the roots establish themselves. With that said, the most important thing to remember when watering Norway spruce is that this species does not tolerate standing water. As such, when in doubt, you should err on the side of not watering your Norway spruce rather than risking watering it too much.

How much water does my Norway spruce need?

The height of summer is one of the few times that you’ll need to water your Norway spruce. At that time of year, it is typical to give this plant about one inch of water per week. However, that amount can change depending on how much it has rained. If it has rained one inch or more that week, you won’t need to give any water to your Norway spruce.newly planted Norway spruce will need more water during the establishment period. Typically, this amounts to watering about once every one to two weeks for the first few growing seasons.

How should I water my Norway spruce through the seasons?

The Norway spruce tree will need the most water during the summer months when the weather is the hottest. At that time, you should give this plant water about once per week in the absence of rainfall. During other times of the year, this plant will often survive with no water at all. In spring and fall, you might need to provide some water if the weather is exceptionally hot, but this is rare. Unlike many other plants, the Norway spruce does not enter full dormancy in winter, which means that it will continue growing, during the coldest months. Still, the water needs during winter will remain quite low as the cool temperatures will not cause the soil to dry out quickly..

How should I water my Norway spruce at different growth stages?

Young Norway spruce trees need significantly more water than those that are established. A newly planted tree should receive water at least weekly to ensure that the soil remains moist to facilitate root development. After the first growing season, your Norway spruce should be well-adapted to its new growing location and should need much less water. At this time, you can begin following the standard instructions for watering this species, providing supplemental water about once per week during summer when it does not rain. Beyond that, there is no other time at which you’ll need to alter your watering habits based on the growth stages of the Norway spruce tree.

What's the difference between watering Norway spruce indoors and outdoors?

It is far more common to grow the Norway spruce in an outdoor growing location. However, it is also possible to grow this plant indoors in a container. In that scenario, one gardener often raise the Norway spruce as the bonsai plant. Whether you grow this plant indoors or outdoors, you can expect its water needs to remain relatively similar. The one difference is that you may need to water an indoor Norway spruce tree a bit more. Indoor plants won’t have access to rainfall during the summer. Also, indoor areas are often much drier than outdoor growing locations, and the size of the pots limits the water-retainability, which can lead to higher water needs.

Fertilizer

Applying enough base fertilizers before transplanting can provide nutrients to norway spruce over a long period of growth. In the first year after transplanting, the nutrition-absorption ability of the tree's roots is not very strong, so apply nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer every 2 weeks. In the fall, apply a little potassium fertilizer to help the trunk grow thick and sturdy. After the plant matures, it's best to fertilize it in spring and summer and only fertilize 2-4 times a year. In late fall, norway spruce slowly enters dormancy, so fertilizing should be reduced and stopped by the end of fall.

Organic fertilizer is the best choice for this slow-growing tree variety. It contains a full set of nutrients that can be utilized continually and reliably. It can also help optimize the soil texture and benefits the plants' growth. If the soil turns dry after fertilizing, water promptly.

It’s impossible to miss Norway spruce growing in the yard, it makes a statement. A popular landscaping tree in temperate climates, it’s an attractive specimen at every growth stage. It has a long lifespan, compared to some other plants, which means varying levels of care to support its growth stages that include knowing a little bit about fertilization.

Fertilizing Norway spruce in the spring encourages healthy growth. Remember, the plant has a long lifespan, and it needs to be supported. Adding nutrients to the soil can also improve the plant’s health, making it better able to resist common pests and diseases that can stunt growth or shorten its lifespan.

The growing medium doesn’t always supply enough nutrients to support healthy growth. However, Norway spruce is a little different from your garden annuals and perennials. It doesn’t require a lot of extra nutrients. The best time to fertilize Norway spruce is in the spring before new growth appears.

The age of your plant plays a role in the type of fertilizer but remember Norway spruce does not require a lot of extra nutrients. Look for a balanced plant food, it will help support healthy root development and growth but stay away from fertilizers with high nitrogen contents.

How you fertilize Norway spruce is as important as when you add the extra nutrients. Apply the fertilizer once in the spring, around the base of the plant. Try to avoid getting any fertilizer on the trunk. If you are using a granulated fertilizer, cover the pellets with a light layer of soil. It helps ensure the fertilizer is absorbed into the soil.

It can be tempting to keep feeding Norway spruce throughout the spring and summer. You want to encourage healthy growth, but too much fertilizer can have disastrous consequences. All types of fertilizers contain nitrogen, and the nutrient does support healthy growth. However, too much nitrogen can result in root burn.

Some plants thrive with monthly or weekly fertilization, but not Norway spruce. It does not require a lot of extra nutrients. Too much fertilizer can cause it to start dying back. Only apply fertilizer in the spring, skipping the other seasons. In the summer, fall, and winter, do not add fertilizer or organic matter to the soil.

Why do I need to fertilize my Norway spruce?

When is the best time to fertilize my Norway spruce?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Norway spruce?

What type of fertilizer does my Norway spruce need?

How do I fertilize my Norway spruce?

What happens if I fertilize my Norway spruce too much?

Sunlight

Norway spruce is shade-tolerant, so it doesn't need much direct sunlight to grow. From spring through early summer, it's best to expose the tree to light for a duration of over 6 hours a day, but a lack of light for a short time won't affect its growth. In summer, when sunlight is harsh, it's best to shade small trees grown outdoors to protect them from long-term, blazing light. If they are potted indoors, move them to a cool, shaded place.

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How much/long should Norway spruce get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

For healthy growth, make sure that Norway spruce receives at least 3–6 hours of sun each day. This is actually a minimum requirement—most plants that can handle part sun can also thrive in full sun, but because they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more flexible than plants that require full sun or part shade.

What type of sunlight does Norway spruce need?

Norway spruce does best with exposure to full or part sun. They will perform best with direct morning light, but in summer they need protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, too much hot afternoon sun can burn the leaves, damaging the plant's appearance and health.

Can sunlight damage Norway spruce? How to protect Norway spruce from the sun and heat damage?

Norway spruce planted indoors can easily be damaged by direct sunlight when it's moved outdoors. The best way to prevent sunburns from overexposure is to move pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot, gradually. But even plants that are acclimated to the summer sun can be damaged by extreme heat. In a heatwave, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist so that plants can cope with excessive levels of heat. Moving plants in containers to areas with afternoon shade or erecting a shade cloth over them can protect sensitive Norway spruce during extreme weather events.

Does Norway spruce need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Norway spruce from the sun?

While bright morning sun and some full sun exposure can be highly beneficial for Norway spruce, the harsh, hot midday sun of summer can be too much to handle.

If planted in the ground, the summer sun will usually ramp up slowly enough through the season for Norway spruce to gradually adapt to its intensity. But a potted plant that has been indoors or in a protected location will often suffer injury when placed suddenly into a location where the direct summer sun reaches it in the hottest part of the day.

To protect this plant from the brutal afternoon summer sun, plant or place it in an understory location where it is shaded at midday by taller trees and plants or by a building or landscape feature.

What will happen if Norway spruce gets inadequate sunlight?

When Norway spruce receives too little sun, they may become pale green or display drooping, yellow leaves. While some leaf drop is normal, if leaves are dropping but no new ones are growing in to replace them, it is a sign that something is wrong. If Norway spruce receiving inadequate light does manage to grow, the new growth is often spindly, pale, and prone to insect infestation. Paying attention to these signs and changing the lighting conditions of the plant will make a significant difference.

Does Norway spruce need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Tender, new leaves are especially sensitive to sunburn. Bearing this in mind, very young Norway spruce and when it's in a strong growth phase, such as in late spring and early summer, will be more sensitive to harsh sun and heat than the mature one or those in a more dormant fall growth stage. Norway spruce fresh from a nursery is also usually not prepared for strong full sunlight and must be introduced to it slowly.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Norway spruce?

Recently transplanted Norway spruce will often experience a bit of shock and will need to be cared for carefully, either shaded from bright afternoon sun or placed in a protected area. On very hot days, you may see the leaves of Norway spruce drooping—this is usually nothing to worry about. Plants will send the water in their leaves down into their roots to protect them from burning. However, if the leaves are still drooping in the evening or the next morning, the plant needs water. Always avoid watering during the hottest times of day, as sunlight can hit wet leaves and scorch them easily.

Norway spruce that has been underwatered will be weaker than that with consistently moist soil. This can leave it with weak roots that are unable to protect the leaves on hot, sunny summer days by diverting water away from the leaves. Care for an underwatered plant by giving it a long, deep watering and then allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Even if it loses its leaves, if cared for properly it will grow new ones.

Pruning

Norway spruce has lush terminal buds. The tree usually takes on a beautiful triangular shape and does not require pruning in general. When overly pruned, its incisions secrete rosin excessively which affects the tree's normal growth. It's best to trim off overly dense, diseased, and dried branches during the plant's winter dormancy. Prune and beautify the treetop in early spring when buds sprout. About 1/2 of the young branches can be pruned off to create your desired shape. For large, mature trees, it's a good idea to prune off all the branches on the lower trunk to reduce nutrition consumption.

When growing norway spruce for Christmas decorations, you need to control height and width. Prune the treetop and lateral branches appropriately short and continue to cut the newly-grown buds short, as well. Repeat this process many times. Seal pruning incisions with wax or duct tape to keep rosin from effusing.

Do I need to prune my Norway spruce?

Norway spruce, like most other evergreen trees, absolutely need to be pruned in order for them to grow as happy, healthy trees. Of course, there are lots of reasons that pruning is important, so we’ll talk about those in greater detail. Pruning opens up the inner canopy to airflow and sunlight. Without keeping these pathways open, the inner canopy will be starved of sunlight and air. Therefore, pruning your Norway spruce is not only advantageous, but it also weakens the impact of pests and infections by separating branches from one another. These benefits are far too easy to reap with Norway spruce to neglect them. Aside from keeping your Norway spruce happier and healthier, pruning just makes things look nice and tidy. Who doesn’t love a well-kept tree, anyway?

When is the best time to prune my Norway spruce?

Norway spruce can be pruned at different times depending on whether they’re grown indoors or outdoors. For outdoor trees, pruning and trimming should be done when the tree is not actively growing; this generally falls under the colder months of winter, but can vary depending on where you live. However, if you’re growing your Norway spruce indoors, there are lots of different times of the year when it’s okay to trim lightly. For example, if you’re planning on trimming a bit off the top of just one or two smaller branches, then you can trim nearly anytime. For heavier pruning on indoor Norway spruce, it’s best to wait until those same colder months when outdoor Norway spruce wouldn’t normally be actively growing. Norway spruce should be pruned as needed. Typically, these trees should be pruned to remove any damaged, yellowing, dying, or dead foliage. It is also necessary to prune this plant to remove any shoots that are congested or are crossing.

What should I do after pruning my Norway spruce?

In order to keep your Norway spruce growing strong, remove any branches or debris that landed at the base of the tree. Keeping the area clear can prevent weeds and underbrush from crowding out the tree, especially if it’s young. Another great tip is to use raw, organic honey to treat large open wounds on the Norway spruce where branches were trimmed. The use of honey prevents any pathogens or potential pests from making their way in. It’s also a good idea to water a little extra after pruning for a week or two. Providing them with a little extra water helps them build natural calluses over the exposed core faster, so they can get back to growing into large, Norway spruce!

How can I prune my Norway spruce: tips and techniques?

While most of the Norway spruce won’t need to be pruned until they develop some substantial height, sometimes their branches get a little carried away in the wrong direction. This is why this part of the Norway spruce needs to be pruned in good time. Tools In order to prune your Norway spruce properly, you’ll need the proper pruning tools. While smaller plant shears and garden scissors may not cut it (pun intended), handheld clippers, pruners and loppers will certainly help out. For very tall branches that are out of safe reach, use a pole saw with the necessary safety equipment. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves while pruning to avoid any splinters or cuts in general. How to Prune To prune your Norway spruce, first cut away any dead, dying or diseased branches. Look for pests, irregular growth patterns, and brittle branches or leaves. Snip these off at the branch collar, where the branch intersection is, without scoring the main branch. Next, be on the lookout for extra long branches or leaves that may not be able to support a lot of weight. These branches or leaves will be too heavy and grow downwards, so this can be trimmed back if necessary. Try to find all of the branches that grow either directly up (that are not the primary trunk) and those that grow directly downward. These branches will become an issue because they can effectively block out light and air from inner branches. Trim these back to the branches they stem from as well. If there’s not much space within the canopy for light to reach the center of the tree, you can trim away some excess foliage to make windows for light to shine in.

Advanced Care Guide

Temperature

Norway spruce likes cool and moist climates. The ideal temperature range for tree growth is 4 to 18 ℃. It's hardy and tolerant of temperatures as low as -30 ℃, but young trees and tender branches are less cold-resistant.

Norway spruce likes moisture, it has good adaptability and is slightly drought-enduring. During the spring and summer growing seasons, the tree prefers higher air humidity (70-80%), while in the fall and winter, lower air humidity (55-65%) can help it grow more sturdy.

What is the optimal temperature for Norway spruce?

As a cool-weather plant, Norway spruce has a specific temperature range you can keep it in to thrive. For Norway spruce to grow as well as possible, you can keep them between 65-75℉(18-25℃). Norway spruce can handle temperatures outside of this range, but whenever possible, try to keep the area you grow them in within several degrees of these temperature limits.

As for the upper and lower limits of what Norway spruce can withstand, that would fall between 75-85℉(25-30℃) on the higher end and 5℉(-15℃) on the lower end. As Norway spruce prefers cooler temperatures, the higher temperature range is more important to avoid. Going into the higher end temperatures can restrict growth, and having Norway spruce above 85℉(30℃) for long periods of time can result in damage and eventually death.

Does Norway spruce require different temperatures for different growing phases?

For each growing phase of Norway spruce, temperatures should be kept within the optimal range of 65-75℉(18-25℃). Norway spruce can tolerate lower temperatures better than high ones, so it won’t particularly hinder growth if your growing area gets as cold as 5℉(-15℃). Below that, however, can start to slow down Norway spruce growth, so if you continue to grow your plants into winter, make sure to keep the room above that temperature.

Three tips for keeping Norway spruce temperature under control

Tip #1: Watch for the Signs of Heat Damage

If Norway spruce overheats, there may be warning signs before it begins to die off. First, the leaves may begin to brown, then branches could begin to fall off. This is because the branches themselves are dying as the tree pulls moisture back towards its center of mass. Make sure to keep temperatures lower, and water your Norway spruce more frequently if they are exposed to heat.

Tip #2: Don’t Let Norway spruce Get Too Cold

While Norway spruce does prefer cooler environments, letting the temperatures drop too fast can begin to cause freeze damage. If your growing area dips fast below 5℉(-15℃), the water in your Norway spruce can begin to freeze. This causes the cell walls to burst and the bark to crack. This could slow growth significantly, and if temperatures don’t increase, may begin to cause parts of Norway spruce to die.

Tip #3: Use Shade and Ventilation to Help Keep Temperatures at the Right Level

If you find that Norway spruce is starting to overheat, you can use a combination of shade and ventilation to help bring temperatures back down. If you don’t have access to an air conditioning unit or fans, shade and ventilation are a good cost effective way to bring temperatures back into the optimal range. Once temperatures are corrected, though, make sure to let your plants get sunlight. Norway spruce needs a lot of sun to grow properly, so while shade could work in the short term for temperature correction, Norway spruce should not be left in the shade for too long.

Does Norway spruce need different temperatures for different seasons?

The only time you need to worry about different temperatures in different seasons is if you intend to grow Norway spruce outside. In that case, you’ll want to watch your outdoor thermometer during the prime growing seasons, spring and early summer. It's especially important that the temperatures do not exceed 85℉(30℃), as this can damage and eventually kill Norway spruce.

If you do plant them inside to help maintain the best temperature, make sure that the space has ample sunlight. Norway spruce needs a lot of sun to grow, preferring full sun to partial shade levels of sun exposure. Be careful that the level of sunlight doesn’t raise the temperature as well. Direct sunlight is important, but too much combined with high heat will begin to damage Norway spruce.

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for Norway spruce?

The best way to maintain the right temperature for Norway spruce is to grow them within a climate-controlled environment. Because Norway spruce prefers cooler conditions, you’ll want to make sure the room you choose has air conditioning or fans, as well as a way to monitor the temperature. Check the temperature once or twice a day, making sure that it is between 65-75℉(18-25℃). If it isn’t, adjust your climate control settings to make sure that the temperatures sit within that range.

If you intend to grow Norway spruce outdoors, you’ll want to do it in the spring and early summer. It can be much harder to maintain that optimal temperature range outside, so if you want to facilitate maximum growth for Norway spruce, it's usually best to have them outdoors.

Soil

Norway spruce grows well in fertile, deep, well-drained, slightly acidic soils. The best soil pH range is 5.1-7.3, making both sandy soil or slightly clay-like soil good choices. As the tree grows slowly and has a long life span, the soil layer should be about 70 cm thick. If barren, the soil can be improved by adding nutrient soil or organic manure.

Propagation

Planting

We can propagate norway spruce by cutting. It's difficult for norway spruce to grow roots, so the cutting selection is very important. Choose robust, year-old branches in the summer and cut off 10 to 20 cm from them. Dip them in a rooting solution for a while, and insert them into the soil that has been sterilized and wetted. Keep the branches 20 to 30 cm apart from one another and keep the soil moist. When they root, transplant them outdoors by the early spring of next year.

Propagating a tree by yourself is difficult, but that doesn't mean it can't be done. If you are interested in this, you can read on.

Tree propagation can be done by cuttings, which is easy to do. Norway spruce can be propagated during the dormant season from mid-autumn until late winter. It can be done successfully at other times, provided you avoid taking cuttings during severely cold periods. The beginning and ending of the dormant season are the most likely to be successful. Flash cuttings cannot tolerate the cold environment. If the winter temperatures in your area are low (e.g., below 0 ℉ for an extended period of time), it is recommended that you place the cuttings in a garage or outdoor incubator after cutting. This will help the cuttings to develop roots. When propagating Norway spruce, be sure your cutting tool is large enough and sharp enough to cut cleanly through the shoots. Using a dull tool can crush or tear the plant, which can lead to infection and disease.

Sharp garden pruners
Diluted bleach solution or isopropyl alcohol to clean tools
Rooting hormone (optional but recommended)
Deep container(s) with drainage holes for planting
Well-draining planting medium such as pine bark, perlite, or a potting soil mix

Steps: Step 1: Choose healthy shoots that are about as thick as a pencil for your propagation and 6 to 8 inches long, preferably from the previous year’s growth. Once you have identified your cuttings, use disinfected garden pruners to cut off the bud tip and take the remaining branch of the front section about 7-8 inches. If you are not putting them into containers immediately, keep the cuttings moist until you are able to pot them. TIP: Pay attention to which side is up when you are taking cuttings - it can be difficult to tell when there are no leaves Step 2: Prepare your containers by filling them with the planting medium. Adding compost to the soil can facilitate plant rooting. Step 3: Dip the bottom of your Norway spruce into rooting hormone, then insert one-third to two-thirds of the cutting into the substrate. Plant them about 2 inches apart. You should be able to plant as many as 10 to 12, depending on your container size. Step 4: Water thoroughly, making sure the potting medium is evenly moist but allowing it to drain. Step 5: Place the containers in a cold, protected location that receives some sunlight. An unheated garage, a porch, or a cold frame work well for this. Leave the Norway spruce there throughout the winter. Water occasionally to make sure the soil doesn’t dry out completely, although it can be dryer during the coldest winter months. Start watering more often as days get warmer in the spring. It is recommended that you place the cuttings in a garage or outdoor incubator after cutting if the winter temperatures in your area are low. Step 6: Move the containers outside to a spot that gets partial sun after the last frost. You can expect to see new leaves on your Norway spruce around the middle of spring.

It’s important to be patient with this process because it is quite slow. In fact, it can take a year or longer for Norway spruce to be ready to be transplanted. Luckily there isn’t much maintenance during this time, and the process has a high likelihood of success. Even if your Norway spruce is putting out new growth, they may not be ready to be planted into the ground just yet. It is more important that there are plenty of healthy roots growing. The roots should be at least 3 inches long, but many people like to wait until roots start to grow out of the drainage holes to be sure that there is a proper root system. Air layering also works to propagate trees successfully, but the procedure is relatively complicated. Pay attention to the age of the branch you want to propagate to know when to start air layering. If you're working with a branch that is old-growth, preferably from the previous year’s growth, spring is the best time for layering. If your chosen branch is new growth, mid-summer is your best bet. These warm months are the best time to encourage new root growth in your plants. A pencil-thick branch could be a good choice. Since air layering is a little more complicated than other types of layering, you’ll need a few extra tools before you begin the process. Make sure you have everything on hand and then begin!

A sharp, sanitized knife
Peat moss for wrapping
Plastic wrap for wrapping
Rubber bands or twist ties
(optional) aluminum foil
(optional) plant growth hormones

Steps: Step 1: Choose a thick upper stem and clear off the leaves around a chosen node. Step 2: Below this node, ring peel the plant to a length of 0.5 to 1 inches, completely stripping the bark of the plant. It is necessary to pay attention to safety of the plant when ring stripping. Step 3: Apply moist (not wet) peat moss to the cut area. Hold the moss in place by tightly wrapping the area with plastic wrap and ties. Apply an extra layer of aluminum foil for sun protection if needed. Step 4: Remove the stem for propagation once the peat moss is visibly filled with roots. Make sure the wrapped moss is moist during rooting. Use a syringe to inject water if you find that the peat moss is already dry.

If you have collected seeds from the tree, you can try to propagate the tree from its seeds. Only sow Norway spruce seeds in warm weather, preferably during the later weeks of spring after any danger or frost or dropping temperatures has passed. Even in warm weather, make sure the soil is warmed up sufficiently, as cooler soil can hinder germination and growth. You need to do it indoors for a successful germination if you want to sow the seeds earlier. To sow Norway spruce in your growing medium, you don't need many extra tools to get the job done. Put on your gardening gloves and get started!

Healthy and full seeds, the germination rate of such seeds will be higher
Growing medium with potting mix soil divided into rows
Fertilizer or compost
(optional) a dibbler or stake
A spray bottle to hydrates the soil
A piece of plastic film (Optional)

Steps: Step 1: Prepare the soil: Mix the soil with organic fertilizer. Fully rotted fertilizer is recommended, and the volume of the fertilizer should not exceed one quarter of the volume of the soil when mixing. Step 2: Sprinkle the plants in the soil and cover the seed surface with soil afterwards. Or use a dibbler or stake to pre-dig holes for the seeds, placing about 3 seeds in each mound. The depth of the soil on the surface of the seed needs to be about five times the thickness of the seed. Step 3: Leave a 4-6-inch gap between each seed mound. Step 4: Water the soil in the container well after planting to provide enough water for the seeds to germinate. Step 5: Mulch the surface of the container soil to moisturize the soil and promote seed germination. Use a spray can to spray the soil with water when the soil is relatively dry. Keep this until the seeds germinate. Note: Before seeds germinate, they can be kept in a low light location. But after the seeds germinate, you need to add light to the plant in time, otherwise it will excessive growth

To grow norway spruce in a yard, purchase seedlings and transplant them in early spring. Get the planting pit ready one week before transplanting; its diameter needs to be about 20 cm longer than that of the root ball and have a depth of about 15 cm deeper. It should be no less than 6 m away from other plants. Add organic fertilizers to the bottom of the planting pit before transplanting and mix them well with the soil.

Place the seedling vertically into the pit, shovel 2/3 of the soil back, and water thoroughly once to make sure the moisture around the plant's roots is sufficient. Then, fill the pit fully up with soil and water again. Stomp the soil firmly and keep the pit surface level with the ground. If it's often windy at the planting site, support the young tree with wood sticks or metal poles in case a strong gale threatens to tilt it or knock it down.

Indoor potted norway spruce can be directly purchased. The tree grows slowly and usually doesn't require repotting. Repotting is only necessary if the needles turn yellow and fall off the tree, the roots around the pot brim or at the bottom wither and dry up, or the soil in the pot compacts. Move the majority of the original soil to the new pot with the plant, and add small amounts of organic fertilizers and new soil to provide more nutrients for its growth.

Transplanting

The best time to transplant norway spruce is during late spring to mid-summer when the plant is actively growing. Choose a location that meets its environmental needs, such as well-drained soil and partial shade. Be gentle when handling roots to minimize stress on your norway spruce.

More About How-Tos

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Norway spruce originates from environments with varying moisture levels, often preferring well-drained soil. Water only when the soil starts to feel dry, ensuring the plant's roots don't remain wet for extended periods.

Learn More

Lighting

Full sun

Norway spruce thrives best when exposed to a generous amount of light, but can also endure locations with moderate light levels. In its natural setting, it progresses healthily where there's abundant light. Too much or too little light exposure can impact its growth, causing it to be stunted or sparse.

Learn More

Temperature

-15 to 30 ℃

The norway spruce is native to regions of Europe with cool to cold climates. It prefers a temperature range of 32 to 90 ℉ (0 to 32 ℃) and can withstand temperatures as low as -40 ℉ (-40 ℃). In the summer, it benefits from cooler temperatures and moderate humidity. In the winter, it can tolerate frost and snow as long as it is not exposed to extreme freezing temperatures for extended periods.

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Transplant spacing

40-60 feet

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Seasonal Care Tips

Seasonal Precautions

A shading screen should be set up when sunlight is too harsh, as the leaf stems of young trees can get sunburnt. The base of the trunk is also vulnerable, so hay can be piled around it to prevent the soil from compacting due to rapid water evaporation. this will keep evaporation from affecting the roots' absorption of nutrients and respiration. In rainy seasons, pay extra attention to soil drainage, as waterlogging around the roots can result in various diseases.

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

Temperate trees and shrubs like your plant require little care in the spring, but it is the best time for planting.

Wait to plant until the soil is warm in a protected area with partial sunlight.

Deeply water new specimens but leave mature ones alone except in severe droughts.

Fertilize every three or four weeks or apply a layer of compost once in early spring.

Prune back any dead growth and shape the plant.

If growing in a container, move the plant to a sunny location.

Hot summer temperatures are the reason temperate trees and shrubs like this plant thrive in partially shady areas.

Increase watering when rainfall is scarce, even with mature specimens. The soak and dry method work best.

Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and remove any debris from the area.

Apply another application of fertilizer or compost to the base of the plant.

Prune back any excessive growth but watch out for newly emerging leaf buds. Try to leave those on the plant for fall growth.

Continue caring for your plant through the fall, when it can add some decoration to gardens or rooms.

Add fertilizer and cold protection to your plant in the form of mulch to help it survive the colder weather, especially when it’s planted outdoors in colder locations.

You can plant new shrubs during this season.

Continue providing established plants with regular watering, soaking dry soil.

Look out for pests and diseases, including leaf spots and mealybugs.

Keep the shrubs in a shady locations, but make sure it gets some exposure to bright, indirect light, especially if it’s grown indoors.

While the plant is somewhat dormant during this season, it can also provide some lovely decoration and requires some care to keep it looking its best.

In the winter, you can take the opportunity to prune away overcrowding, dead, or diseased branches. Dormancy is the best time to perform these tidying tasks.

Sensitive plants can be brought indoors to overwinter away from frost and cold wind if they’re potted and able to be moved. Otherwise, the plant may do well outdoors in more tropical locations, where the temperature doesn’t plummet so much.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Norway spruce based on 10 million real cases

Longhorn beetles

The longhorn beetle is a medium- to large-sized insect with very long antennae and strong jaws. Both its adult and larval stages gnaw on tree trunks, leaving small, round holes.

Solutions: Some longhorn beetles species are native insects, and they cause little damage. Therefore, these don't warrant control. Other longhorn beetles species are invasive pests that were recently introduced from other areas. These species can cause a great deal of damage to hardwood trees. Apply an insecticide containing imidacloprid as a soil injection or trunk injection following product instructions. This will enter into new grow and kill adults who feed on foliage. This will not help save trees that are already infested with large amounts of larvae, but it will save trees located near an infested tree. Contact an arborist for best control practices regarding infected trees. To properly control longhorn beetles, all host plants in a given area must be treated. Contact a local extension agent or state agency. Tracking the spread of longhorn beetles is a key component of their control.

Branch blight

Branch blight can cause lignified branches to dry up entirely and die.

Solutions: Inspect trees frequently, and remove any infected branches as soon as possible. Branch blight cannot be cured, so the only treatment is to prune the tree and monitor it carefully for signs of the disease. All affected parts of the tree should be removed, since blight can survive over the winter inside the plant’s tissues. Blight can become systemic in the tree, in which case the entire plant should be removed so it does not remain a host for the pathogen and allow it to spread.

Dieback

There are several possible causes for dieback.

Solutions: There are a few things to try when dieback becomes apparent: Fertilize and water the plants - these two steps, along with judicious pruning, can help reduce the stress on the root system and encourage renewed vigor Have an arborist check to see if plant roots are girdling Test soil pH and adjust accordingly Remove and destroy infected twigs and branches

Fruit withering

Fungal infection or normal ripening can cause the fruit to dry out.

Solutions: There are a number of appropriate solutions to control fruit withering: Remove any fruit as soon as it shows any signs of infection. Do not compost. Use a fungicide prior to leaf bud and then as per manufacturers instructions throughout the season.

Crown gall

Bacterial infections can cause abnormal brown or black growths on the trunk of the tree. These are also called crown galls.

Solutions: Remove infected tissue. Established trees can survive a crown gall infection, but the galls should be removed to improve the plant's appearance. Use pruning shears to remove the gall, then treat the wound with a pruning sealer. Discard pruned material by putting it in the trash or burning it to avoid infecting other plants. Sterilize the pruning shears after removing the galls. Remove the entire plant. If a small plant is infected with a serious case of crown gall, the best option is to remove the entire plant and burn it. This will prevent bacteria from spreading to other plants. Sterilize the soil. After removing infected tissue, sterilize the soil using heat. Alternatively, plant a gall-resistant plant in the same spot.

Fire ants

Fire ants gnaw on the roots of plants and are aggressive toward people.

Solutions: Caution: fire ants are venomous and cause painful bites which can be fatal in the case of a rare but significant allergy. Fire ants can be a painful pest to have around for you and your plants. Keeping them under control will ensure comfortable gardening for all. For less severe cases: Physically remove mounds. Dig out and remove entire mounds (remember, they go deeper than they seem). Use citrus oil. Pour citrus oil, which is toxic to fire ants, down their holes. For severe cases: Use ant bait. For a chemical solution, broadcast insecticide bait formulated for fire ants in the area around a mound. Apply the bait during a dry evening so the ants can forage for it at night. Look for products that contain Indoxacarb. Release phorid flies. Introduce or promote beneficial phorid flies to gardens. These parasitic flies attack invasive fire ants. Hire a professional. Some ant baits are only available to professional exterminators. For serious cases of fire ants, consider hiring a professional.

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

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More About Norway Spruce

Plant Type

Tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Spread

8 to 9 m

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Flower Color

Red

Yellow

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 to 8 cm

Plant Height

30 to 62 m

Name story

Norway spruce

The plant is an evergreen conifer that spreads throughout most parts of the United States and Canada and is probably the most common spruce. Also, it is native to central and northern Europe, including Norway, so it is called Norway spruce.

Christmas tree

Its shape is conical, so it is also widely used as a Christmas tree. Every Christmas, the Norwegian capital provides Picea abies for London, Edinburgh and Washington. Basically, the Christmas tree in the most central square of each city is Picea abies. Hence, it is also called the Christmas tree.

Usages

Garden Use

Norway spruce (Picea abies) is an ornamental evergreen tree that grows well in well-drained acid or neutral soils. This tree is best suited to large gardens and landscapes because it grows up to 50 m and has quite a wide-spreading profile. It is a low-maintenance tree that gives year-round garden interest. For a great mix of colors and textures grow this tree with spirea, stonecrops, and butterfly bush.

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Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Common Problems

How can I effectively prevent pests and diseases in the early stages of growing norway spruce?

Norway spruce has only some resistance to pests and diseases. Therefore, the soil needs to be sterilized before planting and properly drained during rainy seasons. Take care not to over prune the tree during maintenance.

How can I prevent norway spruce from being tilted or knocked down by a gale?

When newly-transplanted, the roots of the seedling have not secured a firm grip to the ground, making the tree highly likely to be tilted or blown down in a gale. Therefore, a trellis can be set up for the seedling using a few wood sticks or metal pipes or poles. Cushion the contact points between the trellis and the trunk with hay or protective cloths to prevent the trunk from being bruised by the trellis.

Caring for a New Plant

The following pictures and instructions for woody plant are aimed to help your plants adapt and thrive in a new environment.

Picking a Healthy Woody Plant

Check Its Health

Whole Plant

Symmetrical crown, evenly distributed branches, full and compact shape, no excessive growth, close internodes, and uniform leaf size.

Branches

The branches are not withered, and the trunk is free of boreholes or damage.

Leaves

Check the inside of the plant, shaded and overlapping areas, back of leaves. Even colour, no yellowing, no brown spots, no crawling insects, no cobwebs, no deformities, no wilting.

Stems

No mold, browning or soft rot at the base of the plant.

Health Troubleshooting

Whole Plant

1 Asymmetrical crown or missing, uneven branching: prune the weak and slender branches of the larger portion of the asymmetrical crown.

2 Internodes are longer in the upper part, leaves are sparse and smaller on top: increase light intensity or duration.

Branches

1 Dry branches: check if the branch is still alive by peeling back a small section of bark and trim away any dry branches. Watch out for signs of insect infestation inside the branch.

2 Bark with holes: inject insecticide into the holes and apply systemic insecticide to the roots.

3 Damaged bark: brush on a wound-healing agent, and avoid getting it wet.

Stems

Mildew, browning, or soft rot at the base: place the plant in a ventilated, dry environment and water with fungicide.

Leaves

1 Uneven leaf color and yellowing: prune yellow leaves and check if there are signs of rot at the base of the plant. Spray with fungicide for severe cases.

2 Brown spots or small yellow spots: place the plant in a ventilated area and avoid watering the leaves. Spray with fungicide for severe cases.

3 Tiny crawling insects on the back of leaves or spider webs between leaves: increase light exposure and spray with insecticide for severe cases.

4 Deformations or missing parts on leaves: determine if it's physical damage or pest infestation. Linear or tearing damage is physical, while the rest are pests. Spray with insecticide.

5 Wilting leaves: provide partial shade and avoid excessive sun exposure. Remove 1/3 to 1/2 of the leaves for severe cases.

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Check Its Growing Conditions

Soil Check

Soil should smell fresh like after a rain and no musty odor.

Light Check

Check the light requirement of the plant and if it match with planting location.

Temperature Check

Check if the current outdoor temperature is too low or too high.

Condition Troubleshooting

Soil

Potting mix soil, Peat moss mix soil

Soil smells musty or foul: check the root system for decay, place the plant in a ventilated, dry environment, and water with fungicide.

Ideal Temperature

-15 to 30 ℃

Outdoor temperature is not suitable for the plant: wait until it's a more favorable temperature for growth.

Suitable Light

Full sun, Partial sun

Insufficient light: Lack of light can result in fewer leaves and branches, and prevent flowering. Move plant to sunnier spot if possible.

Transplant recovery: After 3 days without severe wilting, slowly increase light to normal levels over a week. If plant droops or sheds leaves, keep it in shade. Once wilting stops, give shade until the plant stands up again. Lots of yellowing and leaf loss mean the light is too low and needs to be increased.

Adapting Your New Woody Plant

Step 1

Repotting

Plant your plant promptly in its final location or in a new pot, if conditions are suitable. When transplanting, clean the roots of the plant and keep the root system intact. Prune any blackened or rotten roots, spread out a heavily tangled root system, and mix in some well-rotted organic fertilizer. Use permeable soil and water thoroughly after planting.

Step 2

Pruning

Remove yellow or diseased leaves immediately. If leaves are crowded and appear wilted or falling off, remove some of them. For bare-root plants, cut off at least half of the leaves. Pruning is not typically required.

Step 3

Watering

Increase watering in the first week to keep soil moist. Water when soil is slightly dry, for at least 2 weeks. Avoid over-watering. Do not water when there is water on your fingers after touching the soil.

Step 4

Fertilizing

Add a small amount of base fertilizer during transplanting or repotting. No other fertilizer needed for the first month.

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Norway Spruce

Repotting

Plant promptly in final location or new pot. Clean roots, use organic fertilizer, permeable soil, and water thoroughly.

Pruning

Cut off yellow or diseased leaves and crowded leaves that appear wilted or falling.

Watering

Water new plants more often for 2 weeks. Avoid over/under watering by checking the soil.

Fertilizing

Add base fertilizer during transplanting. No other fertilizer is needed for the first month.

Sunlight

Regular sun exposure for indoor plants. Shade after transplanting/repotting, then gradually increase light if there is no wilting. Increase light if yellowing and leaf drop occur.

Save and print our adaptation tips card for quick and easy reference.

Download

Norway Spruce

Repotting

Plant promptly in final location or new pot. Clean roots, use organic fertilizer, permeable soil, and water thoroughly.

Pruning

Cut off yellow or diseased leaves and crowded leaves that appear wilted or falling.

Watering

Water new plants more often for 2 weeks. Avoid over/under watering by checking the soil.

Fertilizing

Add base fertilizer during transplanting. No other fertilizer is needed for the first month.

Sunlight

Regular sun exposure for indoor plants. Shade after transplanting/repotting, then gradually increase light if there is no wilting. Increase light if yellowing and leaf drop occur.

Plants with Same Care Needs

Black cherry

Black cherry (Prunus serotina) is a medium-sized, deciduous forest tree native to the Americas, but also naturalized in parts of Europe. It features inflorescence with small white blooms that become clusters of dark cherries, edible when pitted. Mature trees have gray-to-black, distinctly crackled bark. The glossy leaves are poisonous to livestock. It is a highly reproductive pioneer species with invasive potential.

Bloom Time

Spring

Common dandelion

*Taraxacum officinale*, widely known as common dandelion, is a herbaceous perennial that can be found in temperate regions all over the world, in habitats with moist soils. The most popular feature of this plant is its fruits, furry spheres that are easily carried by the wind. Although it is generally considered a weed, common dandelion is actually edible and very nutritious.

Bloom Time

Spring

Common hackberry

Common hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is a medium-sized deciduous tree, native to North America. It looks similar to elms and some other hackberry trees at first glance, but you can distinguish it by looking at the bark - if it is verrucous and has corky texture, then it is probably common hackberry.

Bloom Time

Spring

Common buckthorn

Rhamnus cathartica, colloquially known as common buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Europe. This plant is hazardous to humans and most animals; all parts of it are mildly poisonous. The fast-growing common buckthorn is considered an invasive species in certain parts of North America.

Bloom Time

Spring

Arborvitae

Northern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis) is a small- to medium-sized evergreen conifer native to North America, and can be found in a variety of environments, including forested wetlands and along cliffs. Essential oils are produced using northern white cedar, and it also finds use as an ornamental plant. Due to its increasing popularity in landscaping, more compact plants have been used to develop smaller strains.

Bloom Time

Spring

Sugarberry

Celtis laevigata, commonly known as sugarberry, is a deciduous medium-sized tree native to North America. It is often found near water - on floodplains, along rivers and streams. There are many species of birds, small mammals, and insects that use sugarberry's fruits and leaves as a source of food, which makes it a very important part of the ecosystem.

Bloom Time

Spring

View More Plants

Botanist in your pocket

App

How to Care for Norway Spruce

Symbolism

Endurance, courage, protection, optimism, longevity

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Basic Care Guide

Water

Never miss a care task again!

Plant care made easier than ever with our tailor-made smart care reminder.

What is the best way to water my Norway spruce?

What should I do if I water my Norway spruce too much or too little?

How often should I water my Norway spruce?

How much water does my Norway spruce need?

How should I water my Norway spruce through the seasons?

How should I water my Norway spruce at different growth stages?

What's the difference between watering Norway spruce indoors and outdoors?

Fertilizer

Why do I need to fertilize my Norway spruce?

When is the best time to fertilize my Norway spruce?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Norway spruce?

What type of fertilizer does my Norway spruce need?

How do I fertilize my Norway spruce?

What happens if I fertilize my Norway spruce too much?

Sunlight

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

How much/long should Norway spruce get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

What type of sunlight does Norway spruce need?

Can sunlight damage Norway spruce? How to protect Norway spruce from the sun and heat damage?

Does Norway spruce need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Norway spruce from the sun?

What will happen if Norway spruce gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Norway spruce need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Norway spruce?

Pruning

Do I need to prune my Norway spruce?

When is the best time to prune my Norway spruce?

What should I do after pruning my Norway spruce?

How can I prune my Norway spruce: tips and techniques?

Advanced Care Guide

Temperature

What is the optimal temperature for Norway spruce?

Does Norway spruce require different temperatures for different growing phases?

Three tips for keeping Norway spruce temperature under control

Does Norway spruce need different temperatures for different seasons?

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for Norway spruce?

Soil

Propagation

Planting

Propagating a tree by yourself is difficult, but that doesn't mean it can't be done. If you are interested in this, you can read on.

Sharp garden pruners
Diluted bleach solution or isopropyl alcohol to clean tools
Rooting hormone (optional but recommended)
Deep container(s) with drainage holes for planting
Well-draining planting medium such as pine bark, perlite, or a potting soil mix

A sharp, sanitized knife
Peat moss for wrapping
Plastic wrap for wrapping
Rubber bands or twist ties
(optional) aluminum foil
(optional) plant growth hormones

Healthy and full seeds, the germination rate of such seeds will be higher
Growing medium with potting mix soil divided into rows
Fertilizer or compost
(optional) a dibbler or stake
A spray bottle to hydrates the soil
A piece of plastic film (Optional)

Transplanting

More About How-Tos

Seasonal Care Tips

Seasonal Precautions

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

Temperate trees and shrubs like your plant require little care in the spring, but it is the best time for planting.

Wait to plant until the soil is warm in a protected area with partial sunlight.

Deeply water new specimens but leave mature ones alone except in severe droughts.

Fertilize every three or four weeks or apply a layer of compost once in early spring.

Prune back any dead growth and shape the plant.

If growing in a container, move the plant to a sunny location.

Hot summer temperatures are the reason temperate trees and shrubs like this plant thrive in partially shady areas.

Increase watering when rainfall is scarce, even with mature specimens. The soak and dry method work best.

Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and remove any debris from the area.

Apply another application of fertilizer or compost to the base of the plant.

Prune back any excessive growth but watch out for newly emerging leaf buds. Try to leave those on the plant for fall growth.

Continue caring for your plant through the fall, when it can add some decoration to gardens or rooms.

Add fertilizer and cold protection to your plant in the form of mulch to help it survive the colder weather, especially when it’s planted outdoors in colder locations.

You can plant new shrubs during this season.

Continue providing established plants with regular watering, soaking dry soil.

Look out for pests and diseases, including leaf spots and mealybugs.

Keep the shrubs in a shady locations, but make sure it gets some exposure to bright, indirect light, especially if it’s grown indoors.

While the plant is somewhat dormant during this season, it can also provide some lovely decoration and requires some care to keep it looking its best.

In the winter, you can take the opportunity to prune away overcrowding, dead, or diseased branches. Dormancy is the best time to perform these tidying tasks.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Norway spruce based on 10 million real cases

Longhorn beetles

The longhorn beetle is a medium- to large-sized insect with very long antennae and strong jaws. Both its adult and larval stages gnaw on tree trunks, leaving small, round holes.

Learn More

Branch blight

Branch blight can cause lignified branches to dry up entirely and die.

Learn More

Dieback

There are several possible causes for dieback.

Learn More

Fruit withering

Fungal infection or normal ripening can cause the fruit to dry out.

Learn More

Crown gall

Bacterial infections can cause abnormal brown or black growths on the trunk of the tree. These are also called crown galls.

Learn More

Fire ants

Fire ants gnaw on the roots of plants and are aggressive toward people.

Learn More

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

More About Norway Spruce

Plant Type

Tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Spread

8 to 9 m

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Flower Color

Red

Yellow

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 to 8 cm

Plant Height

30 to 62 m

Name story

Norway spruce

Christmas tree

Usages

Garden Use

View More Info

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Common Problems

How can I effectively prevent pests and diseases in the early stages of growing norway spruce?

How can I prevent norway spruce from being tilted or knocked down by a gale?

Caring for a New Plant

The following pictures and instructions for woody plant are aimed to help your plants adapt and thrive in a new environment.

Picking a Healthy Woody Plant

Check Its Health

Whole Plant

Symmetrical crown, evenly distributed branches, full and compact shape, no excessive growth, close internodes, and uniform leaf size.

Branches

The branches are not withered, and the trunk is free of boreholes or damage.

Leaves

Check the inside of the plant, shaded and overlapping areas, back of leaves. Even colour, no yellowing, no brown spots, no crawling insects, no cobwebs, no deformities, no wilting.

Stems

No mold, browning or soft rot at the base of the plant.

Health Troubleshooting

Whole Plant

Branches

Stems

Leaves

1 Asymmetrical crown or missing, uneven branching: prune the weak and slender branches of the larger portion of the asymmetrical crown.

2 Internodes are longer in the upper part, leaves are sparse and smaller on top: increase light intensity or duration.

1 Dry branches: check if the branch is still alive by peeling back a small section of bark and trim away any dry branches. Watch out for signs of insect infestation inside the branch.

2 Bark with holes: inject insecticide into the holes and apply systemic insecticide to the roots.

3 Damaged bark: brush on a wound-healing agent, and avoid getting it wet.

Mildew, browning, or soft rot at the base: place the plant in a ventilated, dry environment and water with fungicide.

1 Uneven leaf color and yellowing: prune yellow leaves and check if there are signs of rot at the base of the plant. Spray with fungicide for severe cases.

2 Brown spots or small yellow spots: place the plant in a ventilated area and avoid watering the leaves. Spray with fungicide for severe cases.

3 Tiny crawling insects on the back of leaves or spider webs between leaves: increase light exposure and spray with insecticide for severe cases.

4 Deformations or missing parts on leaves: determine if it's physical damage or pest infestation. Linear or tearing damage is physical, while the rest are pests. Spray with insecticide.

5 Wilting leaves: provide partial shade and avoid excessive sun exposure. Remove 1/3 to 1/2 of the leaves for severe cases.

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Check Its Growing Conditions

Soil Check

Soil should smell fresh like after a rain and no musty odor.

Light Check

Check the light requirement of the plant and if it match with planting location.

Temperature Check

Check if the current outdoor temperature is too low or too high.

Condition Troubleshooting

Soil

Ideal Temperature

Suitable Light

Potting mix soil, Peat moss mix soil

Soil

Soil smells musty or foul: check the root system for decay, place the plant in a ventilated, dry environment, and water with fungicide.

-15 to 30 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Outdoor temperature is not suitable for the plant: wait until it's a more favorable temperature for growth.

Full sun, Partial sun

Suitable Light

Insufficient light: Lack of light can result in fewer leaves and branches, and prevent flowering. Move plant to sunnier spot if possible.

Adapting Your New Woody Plant

Step 1

Repotting

Step 2

Pruning

Step 3

Watering

Step 4

Fertilizing

Add a small amount of base fertilizer during transplanting or repotting. No other fertilizer needed for the first month.

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Plants with Same Care Needs

Indoor

Requirements

Full sun

Ideal

Above 6 hours sunlight

Partial sun

Tolerance

About 3-6 hours sunlight

Watch how sunlight gracefully moves through your garden, and choose spots that provide the perfect balance of light and shade for your plants, ensuring their happiness.

Essentials

Preferred

Tolerable

Unsuitable

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Download the App

Artificial lighting

Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.

Important Symptoms

Insufficient light

Norway spruce thrives in full sunlight but is sensitive to heat. As a plant commonly grown outdoors with abundant sunlight, it may exhibit subtle symptoms of light deficiency when placed in rooms with suboptimal lighting.

(Symptom details and solutions)

Small leaves

New leaves may grow smaller in size compared to the previous ones once they have matured.

Leggy or sparse growth

The spaces between leaves or stems of your norway spruce may become longer, resulting in a thin and stretched-out appearance. This can make the plant look sparse and weak, and it may easily break or lean due to its own weight.

Faster leaf drop

When plants are exposed to low light conditions, they tend to shed older leaves early to conserve resources. Within a limited time, these resources can be utilized to grow new leaves until the plant's energy reserves are depleted.

Slower or no new growth

Norway spruce enters a survival mode when light conditions are poor, which leads to a halt in leaf production. As a result, the plant's growth becomes delayed or stops altogether.

Lighter-colored new leaves

Insufficient sunlight can cause leaves to develop irregular color patterns or appear pale. This indicates a lack of chlorophyll and essential nutrients.

Solutions

1. To ensure optimal growth, gradually move plants to a sunnier location each week, until they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use a south-facing window and keep curtains open during the day for maximum sunlight exposure and nutrient accumulation.2. To provide additional light for your plant, consider using artificial light if it's large or not easily movable. Keep a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or invest in professional plant grow lights for ample light.

Excessive light

Norway spruce thrives in full sun exposure but is sensitive to heat. Although sunburn symptoms occasionally occur, they are unable to withstand intense sunlight in high-temperature environments.

(Symptom details and solutions)

Chlorosis

Chlorosis is a condition where the plant's leaves lose their green color and turn yellow. This is due to the breakdown of chlorophyll from excessive sunlight, which negatively affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize.

Sunscald

Sunscald occurs when the plant's leaves or stems are damaged by intense sunlight exposure. It appears as pale, bleached, or necrotic areas on the plant tissue and can reduce the plant's overall health.

Leaf Curling

Leaf curling is a symptom where leaves curl or twist under extreme sunlight conditions. This is a defense mechanism used by the plant to reduce its surface area exposed to sunlight, minimizing water loss and damage.

Wilting

Wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure and its leaves and stems begin to droop. Overexposure to sunlight can cause wilting by increasing the plant's water loss through transpiration, making it difficult for the plant to maintain adequate hydration.

Leaf Scorching

Leaf scorching is a symptom characterized by the appearance of brown, dry, and crispy edges or patches on leaves due to excessive sunlight. This can lead to a reduction in photosynthetic capacity and overall plant health.

Solutions

1. Move your plant to the optimal position where it can receive abundant sunlight but also have some shade. An east-facing window is an ideal choice as the morning sunlight is gentler. This way, your plant can enjoy ample sunlight while reducing the risk of sunburn.2. It is recommended to trim off any completely dehydrated or withered parts of the plant.

Discover care info about seasonal tips, plant diseases, and more?

Indoor

Requirements

Ideal

Tolerable

Unsuitable

Just like people, each plant has its own preferences. Learn about your plants' temperature needs and create a comforting environment for them to flourish. As you care for your plants, your bond with them will deepen. Trust your intuition as you learn about their temperature needs, celebrating the journey you share. Lovingly monitor the temperature around your plants and adjust their environment as needed. A thermometer can be your ally in this heartfelt endeavor. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you explore your plants' temperature needs. Cherish your successes, learn from challenges, and nurture your garden with love, creating a haven that reflects the warmth of your care.

Essentials

Regional wintering strategies

Norway spruce is highly cold-tolerant and does not require additional frost protection measures during winter. However, before the first freeze in autumn, it is recommended to water the plant generously to ensure the soil remains moist and enters a frozen state. This helps prevent drought and water scarcity for the plant during winter and early spring.

Important Symptoms

Low Temperature

Norway spruce is extremely cold-tolerant, but the winter temperature should be maintained above {Limit_growth_temperature}. If the temperature drops below this threshold, although there may not be any noticeable changes during winter, the branches may become brittle and dry during springtime, and no new shoots will emerge.

Solutions

In spring, prune away any dead branches that have failed to produce new leaves.

High Temperature

Norway spruce is not tolerant to high temperatures. When the temperature exceeds {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}, it may experience significant leaf drop, and in severe cases, the entire plant may wither and die.

Solutions

Trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts. Move the plant to a location that provides shade from the midday and afternoon sun, or use a shade cloth to create shade. Water the plant in the morning and evening to keep the soil moist.

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