ABOUT

Hailing from northern climates, white spruce was the first tree species to colonize after glaciers receded. Its needles have a blue-green hue due to a waxy coating and release a strong, aromatic scent when crushed. Live between 250-350 years, though trees up to 1,000 years old have been documented.

Size at time of pickup: 1-gallon container
Tree Size Range: Large tree (more than 40 feet)
Mature Height: 15-30 metres
Origin: Southern Ontario
Foliage: Evergreen (foliage year-round)

CARE

Moisture: Tolerates a range of moisture levels
Light Requirement: Tolerates shade
Soil: Adaptable to grow in any type of soil
Caution: Young white spruce trees are particularly vulnerable to frost damage and should be planted in a protected area.

BENEFITS

Attracts: Birds and butterflies
Use Wildlife: Twigs, leaves, and seeds serve as important wildlife food. Valuable as nesting sites for birds.
Fragrant Foliage: Yes
Larval Host: Columbia silkmoth

📞 Before you dig, contact Ontario One Call for utility locates.
📏 Trees grow up and out! Plant your tree in your backyard or on the side of your property, ensuring it is at least 3 meters from the house/ utilities or 1.5 meters away from your driveway.
🌤️ Ensure you choose a planting site that corresponds to the tree's sun and moisture requirements.
⚠️ Remember! When planting the tree, it is best to use the existing soil on site. If adding amendments, it is recommended to use organic matter (compost or leaf mold) and mix it (1 part compost - 5 parts existing soil) into the top 2 inches of soil from the trunk of the tree out to the dripline. Do not fill the hole with compost or any other commercial soil.

HOW TO PLANT THE TREE

Step 1: Dig a hole twice as wide and no deeper than the root ball of the potted tree.
Step 2: Gently remove the tree from the pot, tickle the roots to loosen the roots at the bottom and place tree into its hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the ground surface.
Step 3: Backfill the hole with soil to the level of the ground and water thoroughly.
Step 4: Apply a 3-4 inch layer of natural mulch around the base of the tree (in the shape of a doughnut, leaving the center empty) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.