Spruce, Colorado Blue Totem

Description

Colorado Blue spruces are symmetrical, formal-looking trees with strong wood and dense foliage made up of short, square, bright blue needles. They are prized for their color and distinct form that holds up well even with age. This cultivar is from the Glauca group, selected because of exceptional color in breeding trials. Blue Totem is much narrower than the species with ascending branches. They prefer moderately moist, well-drained soil but perform well in clay soils of the Midwest. They can be planted in most average soils in the area with enough moisture during establishment. Colorado Blue spruces are more drought tolerant than other species. Avoid pruning lower branches, they will help shade and cool the soil. Effective as windbreaks.Because of their moderate growth rate, Spruces form a dense habit that rarely needs pruning. If needed, prune just the new growth in the spring as it is forming.Photo courtesy of Colony Nursery