Alberta Spruce

Bought one today in B&Q in a container. It says 'not suitable for replanting outside'. Why would this be?
Its going to be decorated for Crimbo and put in the hall window :D

 

Don't know about your tree, marge, but you cetainly have changed for Christmas! :eek: Show us a piccie when ready, okay?

 

maybe it hasn't got roots?

 

Maybe its one of those species that evolved simply to grow inside centrally heated houses, in low light, erratically watered, containerised conditions,regularly sprayed with 'leaf shine' in order to keep some multinational company's profits up? How thoughtful of it. Alternatively...thinking wallop and cods in no particular order. :rolleyes:

 

Well, it has got roots D, I looked! I wish I hadnt bought it now, I'll put it out anyway and see how it goes!

LOL - thought Id better start getting in the festive spirit! :D

 

I reckon Jazid's right - but I think I know the best order..... :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

 

After a google it seems alberta spruce is picea glauca, common name white spruce.
If thats so, it should be as hardy as old boots.

 

Thanks Pete - better plant it somewhere with some space when I do then!

 

Not sure marge, it seems to be something of a dwarf variety, but can really get to the bottom of it.

 

Keep it moist and plant out when there is no frost, firm the soil down well, wait and see. What have you got to lose. If the roots have been allowed to dry out (as they often have) then it is unlikely that it will survive. BUT you may be lucky.

I have a 30+ ft high Norway Spruce which started off as a Christmas tree, was dug up and taken inside for several years. It was a very poor specimen (with the lead shoot missing when I planted it out. I splinted the strongest side branch straight up for a year or two. Now it is a beautiful specimen albeit with a half loop in the trunk.

 

Thanks for the advice - I will def be giving it a go!