How to Plant Potted Norway Spruce Trees

The Norway spruce tree is a native of Europe and thrives in plant hardiness zones 2 through 8, where there is at least 20 inches of rainfall per year. Zones 2 through 8 in the United States are as far north as Southern Alaska and as far south as Central Florida. Norway spruce trees are commonly known as Christmas trees.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Water hose

Instructions

1. Dig the hole large enough so there will be plenty of room for the roots to spread. It is better to dig a big hole to accommodate all the roots than to cut roots for a smaller hole. The hole should be twice as wide and twice as high as the tree's root system. Plant the tree with moist roots.

2. Place the tree in the hole, evenly spread out the roots and completely cover them with dirt so there are no air pockets. Your tree will dry out if air pockets are present. Plant the tree so that all of the roots are covered and only the stem is exposed above ground.

3. Water the tree thoroughly so the soil will pack down around the roots. After watering, add more dirt to the base of the tree and water it again.

Tips & Warnings

• Plant the potted Norway spruce tree when it is 3 to 5 feet in height for easy handling. Add mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and control weeds.

References

• The United States National Arboretum
• Norway Spruce
• National Christmas Tree Association

Resources

• The Norway Spruce Tree