Norway spruce

Norway spruce (Picea abies 'Pendula') does best when watered frequently but lightly. During the growing season (spring and summer), water the plant when the soil becomes dry to the touch about 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) below the surface; this should typically be every other day. During extreme summer heat waves, the watering schedule may need to be adjusted to every day. In the winter, the plant will need much less water, so only water it when the soil has been completely dry for 1-2 weeks. Make sure to water slowly and deeply to prevent any runoff, especially during the summer.

Norway spruce (Picea abies 'Pendula') do best when they receive 5 to 6 hours of direct, strong sunlight each day. It is also important for this plant species to receive adequate sunlight throughout the year for optimal growth. In areas where the winter days are shorter, supplement lighting may be needed for plants to thrive. During extremely hot days, you may want to consider shading the spruce ever so slightly with a light cloth or other protective material to protect it from sunburn and to help promote steady growth.

The Norway spruce is best pruned in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Some of the drooping branches can be pruned to reduce ground cover, but avoid removing too much at once—begin by pruning no more than 1 or 2 branches from the lower crown. As the tree matures, regular thinning out of any overcrowded branches will help maintain the desired shape and size while giving more space for new growth. Reducing the average branch length by judicious pruning will also help keep the spruce’s downward-arching shape attractive.