They are approx. 12 ft tall. Would like to know amount of fertilizer as well. I am outside Calgary and do notice a fair bit of winter burn, more severe southwest side of tree.
The amount of fertilizer depends on the kind you buy, so it is always best to follow the manufacturer's directions on the package.
A balanced fertilizer or one that is slightly higher in nitrogen would be your best bet.
This article may help you with the winter burn:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/winter-burn-in-evergreens.htm
Colorado blue spruce developed two tops last spring. Why did this happen and what can I do to repair this? The tree has been in excellent shape until the new growth started two tops on the tree.
This typically happens if the main trunk's growing tip gets damaged. Other branches on the tree will attempt to take over.
You should inspect the area where the two started competing. You will find either that there is a secondary branch competing with the main trunk or that there are two secondary branches that are competing to replace a topped or irreversibly damaged main trunk.
If it is the first case, you can simply nip or top the secondary branch to stop its growth upward and give the main trunk its edge again.
If it is the second case, there is likely not much you can do because secondary branches will continue to compete for dominance. You may want to have a arborist come look at the tree to determine if any of the secondary branches can take over successfully while maintaining the shape of the tree.
What pesticide can be used to get rid of bagworm on a Colorado spruce tree? This is the 2nd year that we noticed this pest on our tree, but we did not recognize what kind of pest it was until very recently when I searched online and learned about it, which is already late. Unfortunately, as they are so many, it is very difficult to pick and kill them. Is there any other way to get rid of them before the damage is done? I really appreciate your advice in this matter. Thanks.
Here is an article that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/treatment-bagworms.htm
Is this a fungus canker? How do you treat this condition?
I would consult a good reputable tree service in your area ASAP. As this could be an attack by the mountain pine beetle. They will best know now to treat the tree and if it can still be saved. If the tips of it are just turning brown it could be a bit too dry or undernourished. I have had my Colorado blue spruce trees respond very well when I have watered them with some water that has a product called Miracid in it. It is from the makers of miracle gro. It could be a fungal attack as well that can be treat with the following fungicides: Bravo Ultrex, Bravo Weather Stik, Chloronil 720, Chlorostar DF,Concord DF, Countdown L + G, Daconil Ultrex. The fungicides can be pricey though and it may be more cost effective to have the local Arborist or tree care service spray them once they have determined the true root cause.
I am growing a Colorado blue spruce indoors. Could you recommend what kind of grow light to get, as I don't have direct sunlight in my home. Thanks!
A Colorado Blue Spruce would not be able to be grown indoors for any length of time.
Indoors it the air would be too warm and too dry for the health of the tree.
Lack of sunlight, even if a grow light is used would not be adequate.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/colorado-blue-spruce/care-for-colorado-spruce.htm
My Blue Spruce tree is Mis shaped because the tip of a branch near the top has decided that it would like to grow upwards and is competing with the uppermost vertical tip which is the intended leader. The result is a tree that is lopsided because it is directing its growth energy to the aggressive branch. It is otherwise in good health, continues to grow and a healthy color. Any suggestions? Should I prune back the aggressive branch? Lyle lylebradley@shaw.ca
Yes, in most cases you should prune a branch that is growing in an undesirable direction.
Pruning should be done in winter, while the tree is dormant.