Where to Find Potted Blue Spruce Trees for Sale

Blue spruce trees are a popular choice for landscaping and decorating. Their striking silvery-blue needles and conical shape make them visually appealing. The dwarf varieties also work well in containers If you’re looking to add some blue spruce trees to your yard or patio, here’s where you can find potted varieties for sale

Blue Spruce Tree Characteristics

The blue spruce (Picea pungens) is an evergreen conifer native to the Rocky Mountains. It’s known for its stiff, silvery-blue needles that give it a distinctive color. The needles have a waxy coating that produces a glaucous hue. This helps reflect sunlight and conserve moisture.

Blue spruces have a conical, pyramidal shape with tiered, horizontal branching. Mature trees can grow 40-60 feet tall in the landscape Dwarf cultivars reach 10-15 feet at maturity The dwarf varieties are ideal for using in containers.

Blue spruces thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. They prefer steady moisture but are somewhat drought tolerant when established. These trees are very cold hardy surviving temperatures down to -30°F when dormant. They grow well in USDA zones 2-7.

Benefits of Potted Blue Spruce Trees

There are several benefits to buying blue spruce trees that are pre-grown in containers:

• Ease of transport – Potted trees are much easier to handle and transport home compared to bare root or balled & burlapped trees.

• Reduced transplant shock -Container-grown spruces experience less stress when planted since their roots remain undisturbed.

• Year-round planting – Potted trees can be planted anytime the ground is workable, unlike bare root trees that must be planted dormant.

• Instant impact – You don’t have to wait years for the tree to establish. Potted spruces provide immediate presence.

• Flexible placement – Containerized trees can be positioned in the ideal spot before planting in the ground.

• Ability to decorate – Dwarf varieties can be used in containers year-round to decorate decks, patios, and entryways.

Where to Buy Potted Blue Spruce Trees

You can find potted blue spruce trees at many garden centers and nurseries, as well as from online retailers. Here are some of the best places to buy container-grown blue spruce trees:

Local Garden Centers

Most independent garden centers and nurseries will carry a selection of potted evergreen trees, including blue spruce cultivars. Visit garden centers in your area to choose the specific tree you want. Experienced staff can also provide planting and care advice.

Home Improvement Stores

Retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards stock potted blue spruce trees, especially around the holidays. The selection is often limited to dwarf varieties in small containers though. The staff may have minimal knowledge about spruce care.

Online Retailers

Websites like Plants by Mail, Musser Forests, and Nature Hills Nursery sell containerized blue spruce trees that are shipped directly to you. They offer a wider variety of sizes and cultivars than local stores. Be sure to shop early, as inventory sells out.

Tree Farms

Some tree farms that grow blue spruce will sell containerized specimens. Visit farms in your state to see the selection. This allows you to hand select the perfect tree. Availability is highest in late fall and early spring.

Pros & Cons of Purchasing Sources

Each source for purchasing potted blue spruce trees has its own advantages and disadvantages:

• Local garden centers – Highest quality, expert advice; limited selection, seasonality
• Big box stores – Convenience, year-round availability; minimal service, small containers
• Online retailers – Wider selection, shipped to your door; unable to see the tree before buying
• Tree farms – Choose exact tree, buy direct from grower; limited availability

What to Look for When Buying

When shopping for a potted blue spruce, here are some things to look for:

• Container size – Consider the size you want the tree to ultimately reach. Bigger pots will accommodate more growth before needing to be transplanted.

• Tree height – Dwarf cultivars are often sold when 12-24 inches tall. Make sure the expected mature height works for your space.

• Foliage condition – Look for healthy, vibrant needles with the signature blue tone. Avoid yellowing or excessive needle drop.

• Trunk & branching – The trunk should be straight and centered. Branches should be full but not overgrown or root-bound.

• Root system – Gently loosen the root ball to check roots are established but not circling the container perimeter.

• Hardiness – Ensure the tree is rated for your planting zone so it will survive winter temperatures.

• Time of year – Buy potted spruces in spring or fall when they are actively growing. Avoid summer heat or winter dormancy.

Caring for Your Potted Blue Spruce

To keep your containerized blue spruce tree thriving, follow these care guidelines:

• Select a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sun daily.

• Use a porous potting mix formulated for evergreens. Good drainage is key.

• Water thoroughly whenever the top few inches of soil become dry. Check soil moisture daily.

• Apply a slow-release fertilizer for evergreens in early spring and mid-summer.

• Prune lightly in early spring to remove dead branches and shape as needed.

• Protect potted spruces from harsh winter winds. Move containers to a sheltered spot.

• Transplant into a larger container or the ground when roots fill the pot or growth stalls.

Add Striking Blue Color with Potted Blue Spruce Trees

With their icy blue needles and pleasing conical shape, potted blue spruce trees are an excellent choice for adding winter appeal to landscapes and gardens. Take advantage of the benefits of container-grown spruces for an easy-care addition with year-round beauty. Shop early for the best selection from local and online nurseries. Then provide optimal care to keep your potted blue spruce thriving.