Q.Colorado Blue Spruce Trees
We planted ten Blue Spruce trees in our yard in the spring. Now, in autumn, some branches are dropping their needles after turning a brown/red color. What causes this? We have the trees protected from rabbits, antelope, elk, etc. The Mountain Bluebirds love hunting within the trees (all about 10-ft tall), but we have plenty of nesting boxes, so nests have been found, yet. I just don’t know what to do. Too much watering? Too little? We’re in Zone 4 at around 6700 ft elevation, which should not be a problem for these particular trees. Any suggestions??? ~ Diana
Refer to the article below to determine if your new tree is planted in the proper soil and growing conditions.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/colorado-blue-spruce/care-for-colorado-spruce.htm
Newly planted trees need regular watering to ensure it can become established before dormancy and winter.
Watering amounts will depend on the size of the new tree, soil conditions and environment.
Some needle drop is normal for a Colorado Blue Spruce.
If the condition worsens and the tree shows other signs of stress, it could be due to disease.
https://www.extension.iastate.edu/harrison/news/common-diseases-blue-spruce
This link has watering guidelines.
https://ask.extension.org/questions/184569
Remember that most garden centers or greenhouses guarantee a new tree for 1 year from purchase.
