bripow
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Joined: Sat Apr 17, 2010 12:47 pm
Location: Michigan

Save these Spruces or cut them down?

Planted 5 spruces about 6 years ago. 3 didn't make it and had to be removed a few years ago. We kept these 2 because they seemed to be doing ok. Debating on whether or not we should keep these 2 or cut them down. They seem pretty healthy but are a little thin in the middle. Hoping over time as they mature they will fill in. We are 50/50 on keeping them and letting them grow or cutting the down. Would like to hear some opinions.
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Sandman83
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Joined: Mon Apr 09, 2018 1:08 am

Have you considered pruning these trees for density if that is what is desired? In spring, wait till the new growth appears and shear the outermost tips of the branches. The tree will respond by putting out new growth from more interior parts of the tree the following season, which will begin to fill in the open areas. Repeat this a few years and the tree will become much more dense. If you don't care for a sheared-off looking tree, allow it to grow a couple seasons without pruning once you get the density you're after.

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applestar
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Location: Zone 6, NJ (3/M)4/E ~ 10/M(11/B)

I was going to suggest pruning, too. That’s what they do with Christmas trees to get that perfectly conical shape.



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