The Best Companion Plants for Blue Spruce Trees

Oleh Anonymous June 16, 2022 Post a Comment

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Blue Spruce Companion Plants:

When it comes to creating a beautiful landscape, blue spruce trees are hard to beat. Their striking blue-green needles and pyramidal shape make them a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers alike. But what many people don't know is that blue spruce trees can be even more stunning when planted alongside the right companion plants. In this article, we'll explore some of the best companion plants for blue spruce trees, including perennials, shrubs, and groundcovers.

Why Plant Companion Plants?

Companion planting is the practice of planting different species of plants together in order to improve their growth and health. When correctly, companion planting can help reduce pest problems, improve soil quality, and add visual interest to your garden. By planting the right companion plants around your blue spruce tree, you can create a beautiful and healthy landscape that will thrive for years to come.

Best Companion Plants for Blue Spruce Trees

Here are some of the best companion plants to consider planting around your blue spruce tree:

1. Russian Sage

Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a tough, drought-tolerant perennial that pairs well with blue spruce trees. Its delicate purple flowers and silver-gray foliage provide a lovely contrast to the blue-green needles of the spruce. Russian sage also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for eco-friendly gardeners.

How to plant:

Plant Russian sage in full sun and well-draining soil. Space plants about 2-3 feet apart, as they can grow up to 4 feet tall and wide. Water deeply once a week until established, then reduce watering to once every two weeks.

2. Red Twig Dogwood

Red twig dogwood (Cornus sericea) is a deciduous shrub that provides year-round interest in the garden. Its bright red branches stand out against the blue-green needles of the spruce, especially in the winter months when many other plants have gone dormant. Red twig dogwood also produces clusters of white flowers in the spring and blue-black berries in the summer, making it a great food source for birds.

How to plant:

Plant red twig dogwood in full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Space plants about 6 feet apart, as they can grow up to 8 feet tall and wide. Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain a compact shape.

3. Sedum

Sedum (Sedum spp.) is a versatile groundcover that pairs well with blue spruce trees. Its succulent leaves and colorful flowers provide a nice contrast to the rough texture of the spruce bark. Sedum also helps retain moisture in the soil and suppresses weed growth, making it a low-maintenance option for busy gardeners.

How to plant:

Plant sedum in full sun and well-draining soil. Space plants about 12 inches apart, as they can spread up to 2 feet wide. Water deeply once a week until established, then reduce watering to once every two weeks.

4. Yarrow

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a hardy perennial that thrives in hot, dry conditions. Its fern-like leaves and clusters of tiny flowers provide a soft, airy contrast to the dense needles of the spruce. Yarrow also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which help control pest populations in the garden.

How to plant:

Plant yarrow in full sun and well-draining soil. Space plants about 2-3 feet apart, as they can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide. Water deeply once a week until established, then reduce watering to once every two weeks.

5. Japanese Maple

Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) is a small ornamental tree that adds a splash of color to any landscape. Its delicate leaves come in a range of colors, from deep red to bright green, and provide a striking contrast to the blue-green needles of the spruce. Japanese maple also grows slowly, making it a good choice for small gardens or tight spaces.

How to plant:

Plant Japanese maple in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Space trees at least 10 feet apart, as they can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide. Protect from strong winds and extreme temperatures, as they can damage the delicate foliage.

Other Companion Plants to Consider

In addition to the plants listed above, there are many other companion plants that pair well with blue spruce trees. Here are a few more to consider:

Hosta: The large, lush leaves of hostas provide a nice contrast to the spiky texture of the spruce needles.
Lavender: The fragrant purple blooms of lavender attract pollinators and add a pop of color to the garden.
Boxwood: The evergreen foliage of boxwood provides year-round interest and helps create a formal, structured look.
Columbine: The delicate flowers of columbine come in a range of colors and attract hummingbirds to the garden.

Blue spruce trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape, but they can be even more stunning when paired with the right companion plants. By planting perennials, shrubs, and groundcovers that complement the blue-green needles of the spruce, you can create a healthy and visually appealing garden that will thrive for years to come.

FAQs

1. How far apart should I plant my blue spruce and companion plants?

It depends on the size of the plants and how much space you have available. As a general rule, you should space plants at least 2-3 feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.

2. Can I plant annuals around my blue spruce tree?

Yes, you can plant annuals around your blue spruce tree, but keep in mind that they will need to be replaced each year. Perennials, shrubs, and groundcovers are a better long-term option.

3. Do I need to fertilize my companion plants?

It depends on the specific needs of the plants you choose. Some plants may benefit from regular fertilization, while others may not require it. Be sure to research the individual needs of each plant before adding fertilizer.

4. Are there any plants that should not be planted near blue spruce trees?

Some plants, such as black walnut, can release toxins that are harmful to other plants. Be sure to research any potential toxicity issues before planting anything near your blue spruce tree.

5. Can I plant a vegetable garden near my blue spruce tree?

Yes, you can plant a vegetable garden near your blue spruce tree, but keep in mind that the soil around the tree may be more acidic than other areas of your garden. Be sure to test your soil pH and amend it if necessary before planting any vegetables.