Picea abies

• Attracts: Birds are attracted to the tree for nesting and feeding on the seeds from the cones.
• Wildlife Resistant: Deer-resistant due to the sharp, stiff needles.

• Foliage Season: Evergreen; provides year-round interest.
• Flowering Season: Spring (April to May).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 2-7

• Specimen planting
• Windbreaks and privacy screens
• Large landscapes
• Wildlife gardens
• Erosion control

• Color: Dark green needles, ½-1 inch long, stiff, and sharply pointed.
• Form: Needle-like leaves arranged radially around the branches, giving the tree a dense, full appearance.
• Winter Interest: Retains its deep green needles throughout the winter, providing a beautiful backdrop in cold climates.

• Color: Male flowers are reddish-yellow, while female flowers (cones) are purplish when young.
• Form: Small, inconspicuous flowers that mature into long, cylindrical cones.
• Bloom Time: Spring (April to May).
• Cones: Produces large, brown cones that can reach up to 6 inches long.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are cooler.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.5-7.0). Tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery pot, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space trees 25-30 feet apart for specimen planting or 8-12 feet apart for a windbreak or privacy screen.

• Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
• Method: Minimal pruning is required, but if shaping is needed, prune lightly to maintain its pyramidal form. Remove dead or damaged branches as necessary.
• Topiary: Picea abies is sometimes pruned and shaped into topiaries or hedges, but it is generally left to grow naturally for its graceful shape.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but performs best with deep, occasional watering during dry spells.
• Soil Moisture: Prefers moist but well-drained soil. Avoid overly wet or waterlogged conditions.

Thrives in full sun. For best growth, ensure at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

– Harvest Season: Late summer to early fall (typically August to October)

– What to Harvest: Mature cones (brown and woody), branches for greenery, and seeds if propagating

– Cone Maturity Indicator: Cones turn from green to brown and begin to open slightly when mature

– How to Harvest:

– Cones: Gently twist or clip mature cones from branches

– Seeds: Extract seeds from dry, opened cones by shaking or using a seed extractor

– Greenery: Clip healthy, non-diseased branches in winter for seasonal decor

– Best Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon to minimize moisture loss

– Storage Tips:

– Cones: Store in a dry, cool place to prevent mold

– Seeds: Keep in a paper envelope or breathable container in a cool, dry area

– Greenery: Keep cool and mist lightly for longevity if used decoratively

– Uses After Harvest:

– Cones: Crafting, decoration, or seed propagation

– Seeds: Sowing for reforestation or ornamental nursery use

– Branches: Winter wreaths, swags, and floral arrangements

• Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring to support healthy growth.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost, particularly in poor soils. Acid-loving plant fertilizers are ideal for maintaining optimal soil conditions.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, Picea abies is highly drought-tolerant but benefits from supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods.
• Pests and Diseases: Resistant to most pests and diseases, though it can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or fungal diseases. Regular watering and good air circulation help prevent issues.

• Pollination Type: Wind-pollinated. Male cones release pollen that fertilizes the female cones, leading to seed production.
• Seed Production: Large cones contain seeds that provide food for birds and other wildlife.

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