A Bold, Upright Spruce for Cold Climates
The Big Berta White Spruce is a new spruce bred for northern hardiness. A hybrid between Picea glauca ‘North Star’ and Picea pungens ‘Montgomery,’ this tree combines the classic charm of a Dwarf Alberta Spruce with the toughness and vigor of a Colorado Spruce. The result is a conifer that’s more resilient, faster growing, and capable of withstanding challenging northern climates.
“Big Berta” lives up to its name. This spruce grows quickly into a narrow, upright form with longer, sharper needles that boast a rich forest green throughout the year. The growth habit remains structured but slightly more open, giving it a strong architectural form.
This spruce’s hybrid lineage provides beauty and durability. The Colorado Spruce parent contributes hardier needles that resist winter burn, even in full sun, while the White Spruce genetics ensure dense coverage and classic conical symmetry. While Dwarf Alberta Spruces may struggle with intense light or dry winters, Big Berta thrives (provided it receives consistent moisture when snow is scarce).
Ideal as a vertical accent, windbreak, or year-round focal point, Big Berta brings evergreen reliability to landscapes from foundation plantings to open northern gardens. It fast-growing nature, resilience, and texture makes it a new favorite for those seeking reliability every season. Grow yours today!
Planting & Care
1. Planting: Choose a place that receives full sun and with well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and equal in depth. Set the tree straight, backfill, and water deeply. Mulch lightly to retain moisture and insulate roots.
2. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during the first two years. In regions with dry winters or inconsistent snow cover, water periodically during thaw periods to prevent winter desiccation. Once established, Big Berta tolerates moderate drought.
3. Fertilizing: Feed annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release evergreen fertilizer to promote steady growth.
4. Pruning: Requires minimal pruning. Remove only damaged or crossed branches to maintain form. For symmetry, any shaping should be done in late winter before new growth begins.
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