Here’s how to get the most out of your tree long after the festive period
Did you manage to get your hands on either our Shooting Star or Merry and Bright trees?
If so, you'll be pleased to know that these trees are not just for Christmas! The Picea Conica tree is a plant that can be moved to the garden once the festive season is over to thrive all year around. Also known as the Dwarf Alberta Spruce, this tree is very carefree and you don’t need to be particularly green fingered to ensure it grows well outdoors, either. Don’t worry, it won’t take over your garden, as in its maturity the tallest it will be is one metre high. In fact, it is quite slow growing and can remain perfectly happy outdoors for years to come – it definitely makes for a sustainable option! So let’s begin.
Location, location, location
As with all plants, it’s important to consider an ideal spot where you will position your Picea Conica outdoors to ensure it gets the appropriate light conditions it needs to grow well. In this case, avoid shade and choose somewhere with full sun or partial shade. If the base of the plant isn’t getting enough light, it could turn brown. As for soil, opt for something acidic and sandy. They don’t like sitting in water, so make sure the soil is also well-drained, or if it is in a pot, ensure there are appropriate drainage holes.
If you’re planning on planting your tree into the ground, rather than into a pot, dig a hole that is only as deep as it’s original container but twice as wide. It is recommended to avoid loosening the soil at the bottom as this could cause your plant to sink.
Also, choose somewhere with room and that's not too close to other plants as when the Picea Conica feels crowded, its needles turn brown. Pick a spot with plenty of space so it can get all the air circulation it needs.
Fancy a drink?
Whilst the Picea Conica is drought tolerant, you want to ensure that it goes into the ground outside feeling fully hydrated. Aim to water it regularly in order to give the water a chance to absorb into the soil and moisten the entire root ball. Eventually, once the roots are established, you will not need to water it as much.
Also, avoid fertiliser for the first six to eight weeks of your Picea Conica being outside as this could burn the new roots.
Time for a trim
On the whole, these trees are very low maintenance – they should only be pruned to remove any dead foliage. Trim them with clean, sharp pruners although this probably isn’t something you need to worry about until spring when new growth has started.