Niemetz Spruce Tree

Creamy spring growth against blue foliage

Picea pungens ‘Niemetz’ puts on a striking spring display when creamy white new growth emerges against its older blue needles. The fresh growth gradually deepens to blue as the season progresses, providing a changing look and lasting seasonal interest.

Young plants often have an irregular shape that is wider than tall, but they develop into attractive upright trees with age. Hardy and durable, this Colorado spruce makes a distinctive focal point in foundation plantings, mixed borders, or open lawn areas. Colorado spruce is best planted in cooler climates with low humidity.

Planting & Care

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 location with well-drained soil and enough room for the tree’s mature spread. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and about twice as wide, keeping the root flare level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.

2. Watering: Water deeply after planting and regularly during the first one to two growing seasons. Allow the upper few inches of soil to begin drying between waterings. Once established, it tolerates some dryness but benefits from supplemental water during prolonged heat or drought.

3. Pruning: Little pruning is needed. Remove any dead growth as needed. Allow its naturally irregular young form to mature rather than shaping it heavily.

4. Fertilizing: Feed lightly in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreen trees if growth is weak or the soil is poor. Established trees in healthy soil generally need little fertilizer; avoid overfeeding, which can encourage soft growth.