Skylands Oriental Spruce Tree

1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Remove the stake and ties at planting, as these are only for shipping. Choose a sunny to partly shaded location with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Allow enough room for its pyramidal form to develop without crowding. In regions with hot summers, plant in part shade to protect needles from scorching.

2. Watering: Water deeply after planting and regularly during the first growing season. Once established, water during extended hot or dry periods, keeping the soil evenly moist but never soggy.

3. Pruning: Little pruning is needed beyond removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches. If shaping is necessary, prune lightly in late winter or early spring and avoid cutting into old, bare wood.

4. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens in early spring if growth is weak or soil is poor. Avoid overfertilizing, which can reduce the plant’s naturally compact form.