What is the best size container to plant a Alberta Spruce in?
M.A. Banks from Hickory, NC
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
God bless you. : )
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.