Picea sitchensis, Sitka spruce

Water when the substrate is dry on the surface, for about three centimeters. Use non-calcareous water, such as rainwater, filtered water or mineral water.

Don 't let water stagnate in the planter or saucer, as it may rot the roots.

Your Picea sitchensis is a tropical plant. It appreciates humidity. Spray its foliage with water at room temperature.

Avoid calcareous water, which leaves white marks on the leaves. Prefer rainwater or filtered water.

Choose a pierced terracotta pot. This material ensures more uniform evaporation of water and prevents root rot. The container should be deep so as not to topple under the weight of the plant and allow your Picea sitchensis to grow. Gravel or clay balls can be placed at the bottom to improve drainage.

Pour in a layer of rich potting soil, such as potting soil for acid-loving plants. Plant your Picea sitchensis. The root ball should be three to five centimetres below the edge to form a watering trough. Add potting soil.

Press down and water until the water runs off through the drainage holes to encourage rooting.

To promote the growth of your Picea sitchensis, apply fertilizer in spring and summer.

Fertilize your Picea sitchensis with a conifer fertilizer once a month. Follow the dosage and manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging the foliage.

Your Picea sitchensis does not need pruning. On the contrary, pruning could be detrimental to its growth.

You can, however, remove dead branches in early summer using a clean, sharp tool, such as pruning shears.

Soak your Picea sitchensis to rehydrate the root ball.

Meanwhile, dig a hole twice the size of the root ball. Plant your Picea sitchensis. The rootball should be level with the soil. Fill in with a mixture of garden soil and universal potting compost. You can add fertilizer if your soil is poor.

Press down and water thoroughly to help the plant take root.

Your seeds are more likely to germinate if you cold stratify them. Do this in winter so you can sow in spring.

Fill an airtight bag (e.g. A freezer bag) with potting soil for sowing and planting. Moisten the substrate. Bury your seeds in the potting soil, seal the bag and place it in the fridge for two months.

Check your mixture regularly to make sure it doesn't rot and remains moist. If any seeds germinate, you can remove them for planting.

Pour seedling and planting soil into cups. Plant your seed a centimetre deep. Spray the substrate to moisten it.

Place your seedlings in a bright spot where the temperature does not exceed 15°C.