Picea Pungens Blue Diamond

• Native to the Rocky Mountains of North America, this cultivar is prized for its compact growth habit and intense blue needle colour.
• Grows slowly to form a neat pyramidal shape, making it perfect for smaller gardens where space is limited.
• The distinctive blue-silver needles are sharp and four-sided, creating beautiful texture and year-round interest in the landscape.
• Beloved by gardeners for its drought tolerance once established and ability to thrive in challenging conditions.

• Water deeply once weekly during growing season, reducing to monthly in winter. Check soil moisture 5cm down before watering.
• Position in full sun location with morning sun exposure for best needle colouration. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates.
• Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil enriched with compost. Add coarse sand if drainage is poor.
• Feed with slow-release fertiliser in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers which can reduce blue colouration.
• Prune minimally, only removing dead or damaged branches in late winter. Shape lightly if needed when young.
• Mulch base with organic matter to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch away from trunk.

• Provide full sun to partial shade with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for best blue colouration. Morning sun with afternoon protection works well in hot climates.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
• Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with good organic content. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
• Tolerates frost and cold temperatures but protect from hot, drying winds in summer. Best suited to cooler Australian regions.

• Spider mites can infest during hot, dry conditions causing yellowing needles. Increase humidity and apply miticide spray if severe.
• Aphids may cluster on new growth in spring. Blast off with water or use insecticidal soap for persistent infestations.
• Needle cast diseases occur in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Ensure good spacing and avoid overhead watering.
• Root rot develops in waterlogged soils. Plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering, especially in winter.