How to Trim a Colorado Blue Spruce
Colorado blue spruce trees have a columnar pyramidal shape that can be maintained through proper trimming. Damaged and diseased branches should be cut off each year to promote healthy growth. Use the right pruning tools like pruning shears for small branches the size of pencils, loppers that will easily fit branches in its bite and pruning saws. Plant these trees in well-drained soil with a pH balance between 6.5 to 7.0 and in full sunlight for optimal growth. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Choose a time in late winter or early spring to trim your Colorado spruce tree. Inspect your tree for any fungal disease growth. Cytospora and rhizosphaera are the most common fungal diseases. Look for needles turning purple and brown, brown branches and early needle drop.
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Dip the pruning tool in a mixture of 70 percent denatured alcohol and water. Cut the branch off next to the branch collar. The branch collar is the swelling that connects the branch to the trunk. Hold the branch while making a cut to prevent tearing the bark.
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Cut off the side shoots or later branch whorls to maintain the classic Christmas tree shape. Prune to 1 inch of a healthy bud. Make sure the top branches are shorter than the lower branches. Be careful not to take off too much of the crown of the tree.
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Cut off any competing central leaders or branches that grow vertically from the tree. By having one central leader, you create a uniform-looking tree.
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Trim off any lower branches that may be touching the ground if they are at risk of being mowed. Cut off any branches rubbing together or growing inward.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a photograph of a well-pruned Colorado spuce tree as your guide when pruning.
Avoid topping or cutting off the top of a Colorado blue spruce to prevent creating an unnatural-looking tree. Transplanting a tree is a better option when trees grow outside their designated growing areas.
