How to Grow Weeping Norway Spruce - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Weeping norway spruce is a beautiful evergreen tree that is native to Europe. It has a unique pendulous form with long, drooping branches that give it a weeping appearance. Weeping norway spruce is a popular ornamental tree and is often used in landscaping. It is also a popular Christmas tree.

How to Grow Weeping Norway Spruce - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • weeping norway spruce
  • weeping spruce
  • weeping fir
  • weeping pine
  • weeping cedar

Good to Know

  • Weeping norway spruce is a type of spruce tree that is known for its weeping habit.
  • The tree is native to Europe and Asia and is widely grown as an ornamental tree in many parts of the world.
  • Weeping norway spruce typically reaches a height of 20-30 meters (65-100 feet).
  • The tree has a conical shape with drooping branches that give it a weeping appearance.
  • The leaves of the tree are needle-like and measure 2-3 centimeters in length.
  • The tree produces small, brownish-yellow cones that measure 2-3 centimeters in length.
  • Weeping norway spruce is an important source of timber and is used in the construction of houses, furniture, and various other items.
  • The tree is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
  • Weeping norway spruce is susceptible to various diseases and pests, which can cause damage to the tree.
  • The tree has a lifespan of 60-80 years.

Related plant:
Weeping Caragana

How to Grow

  1. For weeping norway spruce, first step is to find a location where the tree will have plenty of room to grow.
  2. Once you have found the perfect location, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the tree’s root ball.
  3. Place the tree in the hole and make sure that it is straight.
  4. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down as you go.
  5. Water the tree deeply.
  6. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, making sure to keep it away from the trunk.
  7. Fertilize the tree once a year with a slow-release fertilizer.
  8. Prune the tree as needed to maintain its shape.
  9. Monitor the tree for signs of stress and pests.
  10. Enjoy your beautiful weeping norway spruce!

Related plant:
Weeping Birch

Soil Condition

About soil condition, weeping norway spruce prefer deep, moist, well-drained soil. They are not tolerant of drought or heavy, wet soils. If the soil is too dry, the needles will turn brown and drop off. If the soil is too wet, the roots will rot.

About light

Not too different with other evergreens, the weeping Norway spruce requires full sun to partial sun in order to prosper. If you live in an area with hot summers, some afternoon shade is appreciated. This stately tree does best in rich, well-drained soil, but it is tolerant of a wide range of both soil types and pH levels.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition is the most important factor in the growth of weeping norway spruce. The tree requires a long, cool period in order to produce the desired weeping effect. If the tree is not exposed to enough cool weather, it will not weep. In areas with warm winters, the tree may need to be grown in a pot and kept outdoors in a cool location, such as a garage or shed, for several weeks prior to planting.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% or less, as too much humidity will encourage growth of fungi. The weeping Norway spruce prefers a well-drained, slightly acidic soil, and does not tolerate drought well.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this plant does best with a low nitrogen fertilizer. For the root system, it is important to keep the roots moist but not soggy. If the roots become too dry, the plant will become stressed and may start to weep.

Light requirement

Pruning weeping norway spruce is best done in late spring or early summer, after the new growth has hardened off. You can prune to control the shape and size of the plant, or to remove damaged or diseased branches. When pruning, make sure to make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a bud or node.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of weeping norway spruce is best accomplished by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and taken from the tips of the branches. They should be placed in a well-drained potting mix and kept moist until roots have developed.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is between 1 and 2 feet per year. Some cultivars can grow faster, while others may grow more slowly. When planting a weeping norway spruce, be sure to give it plenty of room to spread out since it can reach up to 15 feet wide.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are needle cast, aphids, and spider mites. Needle cast is a fungal disease that affects the needles of the tree, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause the needles of the tree to turn yellow and curl up. Spider mites are tiny, spider-like creatures that feeds on the sap of the tree, causing the needles to turn brown and fall off.

Tips on Growing

  • Make sure to plant your weeping Norway spruce in a location that receives full sun.
  • Be sure to space your trees at least 10 feet apart to allow for proper growth.
  • Water your trees regularly, especially during dry periods.
  • Fertilize your trees regularly to promote healthy growth.
  • Prune your trees regularly to maintain their shape and size.
  • Protect your trees from harsh winter weather by covering them with burlap or a tarp.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and treat them promptly.
  • Harvest your trees regularly to keep them from becoming overgrown.
  • Use a ladder or other means to safely access your trees when pruning or harvesting.
  • Contact your local Cooperative Extension office for more information on growing weeping Norway spruce.

You May Like

  • Weeping white pine (Pinus strobus var. pendula)
  • Weeping larch (Larix decidua 'Pendula')
  • Weeping linden (Tilia x 'Pendula')
  • Weeping willow (Salix babylonica)
  • Weeping hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Pendula')
  • Weeping sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum 'Pendulum')
  • Weeping yew (Taxus baccata 'Pendula')
  • Weeping cherry (Prunus subhirtella 'Pendula')
  • Weeping beech (Fagus sylvatica 'Pendula')
  • Weeping ash (Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula')

Source:
Picea abies ‘Pendula’ -Weeping Norway Spruce | Nursery Crop …
Weeping Norway Spruce - Picea abies 'Pendula' - PNW Plants
Weeping Norway Spruce - Central Oregon Community College

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Trees Category