Prune dead wood in early spring. Water young trees thoroughly once a week in hot, dry weather. Hose should be placed at base of plant and water should trickle into soil. Problems Spruce gall aphid causes tips of branches to die. Other pests include spruce budworm and spider mite.
Pest damage can ruin formal symmetry of tree.
Alternatives Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area. Comments Placing this tree in a landscape is difficult because it is so dominant. It is best used as a single specimen plant for accent. Other plants make better choices for use as screens and mass plantings. The branches droop, and the plant loses its shape in old age.