In nature, thickets of Serbian Karel spruce were found at the end of the nineteenth century. This culture has many advantages. It is characterized by pronounced plasticity and rapid growth. It was this culture that served as the basis for obtaining many varieties of spruce that are found in different countries of the world. In order for tree growing to be successful, it is recommended to follow a number of rules.
Description of the tree
Spruce of this variety is sometimes called Karelian.This coniferous plant reaches a height of 80 centimeters and is distinguished by fairly thick and voluminous needles. As they develop, young trees actively grow shoots. In this case, the crown is formed gradually. As a result, the above-ground part resembles a thickened hemisphere in appearance.
This spruce is characterized by rather slow growth. Over the course of a year, it increases by about 3 centimeters in height and 5 centimeters in width. Pruning of the crop begins no earlier than 10 years of age.
The needles of this culture are characterized by a green color, which becomes silver with age. The needles reach a length of 1.5 centimeters. Due to the rounding at the ends, the needles almost do not prick.
How to plant correctly
Serbian spruce Karel is recommended to be planted in an open area or in partial shade. The tree can withstand strong winds and short droughts.
Preparation and selection of seedlings
When purchasing seedlings, it is recommended to focus on the visual characteristics of the crop. A 5-year-old spruce is distinguished by a small number of branches that are directed in different directions. It is best to buy spruce from a local specialized nursery. This plant is more adapted to regional climatic conditions.
You should not buy a tree with bare roots. It is also important to consider that darkened needles at the ends indicate the presence of pathologies. In addition, it is important to ensure that the needles do not break. It is worth considering that unscrupulous sellers try to hide tree diseases by pruning.To do this, they give the spruce an ideal shape with clear contours.
Pit preparation
To plant a spruce tree, you need to dig a hole. The dimensions of the hole should be 70x50x50 centimeters. The use of high-quality drainage is of no small importance. For this purpose, it is permissible to use crushed brick or sand. The interval between trees should be 4-5 meters.
Landing
It is recommended to place seedlings in planting holes so that their root collar is located at ground level. Before planting, the seedlings should be soaked in water and kept for 1-2 hours. The planting hole must be sprinkled with soil and carefully compacted around the trunk. After which the plants need to be watered. It is recommended to use 1 bucket of water for 1 tree.
How to care
To Serbian spruce looked decorative, it needs to be properly looked after. It is important to take into account a number of features.
Watering
In summer, care includes mandatory soil moistening. It is recommended to water the tree 1-2 times a week. 1 plant requires 10 liters of water. It is best to carry out the procedure in the evening.
What fertilizers to use
The plant should be fed only when planting. It is worth placing compost at the bottom of the depression and adding specialized fertilizer for conifers. For this, it is permissible to use “Compo”, “Novofert”, “Stimovit”.
Loosening
To avoid soil compaction, it needs to be systematically loosened. However, this is allowed to be done no deeper than 7 centimeters. The fact is that the root system of this species is close to the top layer of soil.
Preparing for cold weather
Young trees need to be prepared for winter. To do this, the spruce is wrapped in non-woven material and tied with twine.It is recommended to use acidic soil for mulching.
Reproduction methods
Serbian spruce can be propagated by grafting or cuttings. The second method is considered simpler. To use it you need to do the following:
- cut off the cutting;
- remove the lower needles from the branch;
- soak the planting material in a growth stimulator;
- plant the plant in clean coarse sand.
Threats to the tree
Among the pests, Serbian spruce can be affected by spider mites, various types of aphids, and leaf rollers. She also suffers from mealybugs and hermes. At the first signs of damage, the tree should be treated with insecticides.
Serbian spruce can also suffer from pathologies - schutte, rust, rot, fusarium. To get rid of diseases, it is worth using fungicides.
Application in design
Karel spruce has excellent decorative properties, which is why it is often used in landscape design. The crop can be placed along paths and fences. This plant goes well with colorful annual crops. It can be combined with boulders and cobblestones.
Growing Serbian Karel spruce has a number of features. In order for the crop to retain its decorative properties, it is important to provide it with proper care.
