How to Transplant Spruce Trees
How to Transplant Spruce Trees. Spruce trees are magnificent additions to the landscape. Hardy, disease resistant and hardy in zones 4 through 8, spruce trees are one of the most popular evergreens for windbreaks and property divisions. Spruce trees grow well while young and will reach a mature height of 50 to 75 feet with a 25- to 35-foot spread.
Spruce trees are magnificent additions to the landscape. Hardy, disease resistant and hardy in zones 4 through 8, spruce trees are one of the most popular evergreens for windbreaks and property divisions. Spruce trees grow well while young and will reach a mature height of 50 to 75 feet with a 25- to 35-foot spread.
Things You'll Need
Shovel
Organic compost
Leaf mulch
Garden gloves
Pruning shears
Planting Spruce Trees
Choose a well-drained, open location to plant your spruce tree. When choosing a planting location, consider the size of the tree at maturity. Be aware of property boundaries, utility lines and underground pipes.
Lift or move the spruce tree by lifting the root ball. Do not pull or yank on the trunk as you may cause damage to the delicate root system.
Dig a hole twice the width and twice the depth of the root system.
Fill the hole with water and allow to drain.
Sift the soil dug from the planting hole, removing all roots, rocks and weeds.
Mix the native soil with equal parts organic compost and mulch. Leaf mulch or peat moss may be used.
Lift the spruce tree by the root ball and place in the planting hole. Trim any broken roots. Make sure the tree is centered and aligned vertically. Examine the stem and plant to the same depth as it was previous planted.
Fill up one-third of the planting hole with the soil mixture. Tap down gently to remove air pockets around the tree roots. Add water and allow to settle. Add another third of the soil mixture, then tap down, water and allow to settle.
Fill the remainder of the hole.
Cover the planting area with a 2-inch layer of mulch. Top dress the area with decorative rocks or pine bark.
Tips & Warnings
Trees should be planted in the spring or fall, not in the heat of the summer.
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