A note from a 2020 spruce tree recipient:

Thank you very much for the white spruce delivery earlier this month. We love it! I found your mom's obituary online so that we could properly name our tree in her honor. I asked my girls to choose between Elizabeth, Betsy or Mrs. G and they went with Elizabeth. I think you honored your mom in a wonderful way.

Thank you,

Sarah

Planting Tips

Location: Tree branches should never be within 4' of a building to allow adequate airflow and drying of the building. White Spruce grow at least 10 - 20' wide, so we recommend planting your tree at least 10' from your house and other structures (like sidewalks). The tree can grow 60' tall (at a rate of 1-2' per year!), so avoid planting under power lines or other trees.

Sun: White spruce prefer full sun but they can grow in almost any light condition.

Planting hole: The hole should be the same depth as the tree pot. The hole should be 2x wider than the pot to allow the roots to more easily grow into the loosened soil. Remove the pot and gently loosen any roots that look squished before planting the tree. Backfill in the hole. Do not bury the tree trunk or place soil on top of the rootball.

Watering: During the first year (and during extended droughts) while the ground is not-frozen, your tree should be thoroughly watered 2-3 times a week making sure that you try to make sure it freezes up well watered. Fertilizing is not necessary and not recommended during the Fall (b/c new growth will not be hardened off in time for winter).

Need help planting? We will connect spruce tree winners with a volunteer organization willing to help.