Fall-Planted Blue Spruce: Winter Survival Assessment

Survival Timeline

Must wait until spring to confirm establishment. 30 trees planted Nov 1, watered until freeze.

First-Year Care Rules

• NO fertilizer first growing season
• Mulch 3 inches - conserves moisture
• Water if 10-14 days no rain - critical for root establishment
• Slow top growth first 2 years = normal (root focus)

Spring Assessment

• New growth = success
• Brown, brittle = failure
• Most should survive with proper care