What Is the Growth Rate of a Colorado Blue Spruce?

A hardy evergreen, the Colorado blue spruce adds green to many winter landscapes.

With its blue-tinged needles, the Colorado blue spruce is an evergreen that is often associated with wintertime and winter holidays. This slow-growing tree does well in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) hardiness zones 4A through 7B.

General Growth

A slow-growing tree, the Colorado blue spruce grows an average of 12 inches per year once established, according to University of Florida Extension. A number of factors, however, can affect growth rates.

Transplanting

Transplanting can slow the growth of this already slow-growing tree for several years. However, after becoming established in its new location, growth rates will return to normal.

Effects of Water

While Colorado blue spruce is drought resistant, long periods without adequate water will slow the growth of this tree. In addition, standing water, as during extended floods, may adversely affect its growth.

References

• University of Florida Extension: Colorado Spruce