Container for an Alberta Spruce

By Kim Ch from WA (Guest Post)

Hello - I would ask at the nursery where I bought it, or even more kindly would be to go there and look at the tags on similar plants. Look for the mature size of the tree. Find a spot for it where a tree that size will fit, without overhead power lines, underground water lines, drains (you may need to check the map of your property) and so on. That way it can live its full lifespan in peace, not having to be torn out and moved. This will be the most low-stress for the plant and for YOU. God bless you!

By Lynda (Guest Post)

If it's destined to be a huge tree, but slow growing, any good sturdy container should work, but needs to be on wheels, on a dolly, or have a way to move it around as it grows. When it's too big, plant it in the ground, or move to bigger size container, BUT BEORE IT GETS POTBOUND AND THE ROOTS COME CREEPING OUT OF THE CONTAINER.
Otherwise, if you want to Bonsai it, you can remove it once a year and trim/train with wire wrapping, the
root system, gently, but consistently. Remember that all Spruces are evergreen LOVE ACID soils, so I'd be tempted to put 1part Landscaper's Mix with
1 part crushed charcoal (to retard and minimize mold/mildew) with 1 part plain potting soil. Do NOT
give it fertilizer unless specifically for potted evergreens AFTER you see how it growsa year, otherwise I'd just give it a light spraying of
Sea Kelp when it looks wilty or has the endtips slightly drying, perhaps once a month or so. Watch for spider mites/webs, and any sorts of bagworms/scale. Do NOT overwater it, but water well when it needs it, about once a month. Let its soil dry out a lot. Keep mulch on soil surface. Give it PLENTY OF SUNLIGHT for best foliage. Otherwise, if in only part sun, it will become leggy and unattractive. Why did you choose this plant for a container specimen? It's going to be quite a challenge to raise it. I hope you are up to it.

God bless you. : )