evergreen tree
Norway Spruce: pruning, storm risk and removal
Picea abies. Also called European spruce, common spruce.
Plain-English notes for homeowners, plus field notes for tree crews. General guidance only: for one specific tree, have a local insured pro look at it.
Norway Spruce at a glance
| Height | 40-60 ft in yards; can exceed 100 ft |
|---|---|
| Spread | 25-30 ft |
| Growth rate | Medium |
| USDA zones | 3-7 |
| Lifespan | Typically 100-200 years in landscapes |
| Type | Evergreen |
| Native range | Northern and central Europe; widely planted in the northern and eastern US as a windbreak and Christmas tree |
| Roots | Shallow and wide-spreading. Roots tend to stay in the top layer of soil. |
| Wood | Light, soft and moderately strong. It is a major lumber and pulp species in Europe. In the US it is mostly used for pulp, mulch or light firewood. |
| Storm risk | highShallow roots, tall height and dense crowns make it prone to windthrow in saturated soil and storms, and to limb breakage in heavy snow or ice. |
Typical ranges, not guarantees. Soil, water, space and care change how a tree grows. Storm risk is our general rating for the species, not an inspection.
For homeowners
Caring for a norway spruce
Best time to prune
Late winter or early spring. Prune dead or damaged branches and keep the central leader intact.
Avoid pruning
Avoid topping and heavy cuts into bare wood. Do not wound the tree during wet weather when fungus spreads.
More on timing: when to prune trees.
- Give it plenty of room. It looks small when planted but gets big and wide.
- Water young trees during dry spells and mulch the root zone.
- Watch for crown thinning or yellowing needles, which can point to root stress or drought.
- If a tree leans suddenly or the soil lifts near the base after a storm, keep people away and call a qualified arborist.
Safety first
Do not climb a tree or use a chainsaw on storm-loaded or broken wood. If a tree or limb is touching power lines, stay away and call the utility. If someone is in danger, call 911. For anything big, hire a local insured pro: read how to hire a tree service and is my tree dangerous?
Lirevon does not do tree work. Find local pros on Google Maps and read their reviews, then get two or three written quotes.
For tree crews
Field notes: working on norway spruce
- 1Shallow roots mean a tree can fail at the base. Look for lean, soil cracks and mushrooms at the root flare.
- 2In windbreak rows, trees may be locked together. Take the leaning tree out in a safe order and plan for spring-loaded limbs.
- 3Heavy, drooping branches hold weight. Rig pieces smaller than you would for an open-grown hardwood.
- 4Sap and needles are messy. Plan for a lot of brush.
Removal notes
Mature Norway spruce often grows in windbreak rows. These trees are tall with heavy drooping limbs, and one tree may lean on another. Check for root plate lift or soil cracks before climbing. Many large jobs use a crane or a lift.
Wood
Light, soft and moderately strong. It is a major lumber and pulp species in Europe. In the US it is mostly used for pulp, mulch or light firewood.
Pricing this job? Try the tree job estimator. Follow your own safety plan and crew training on every job.
Common problems for norway spruce
Pests and diseases to watch for. Each link explains signs and what to do.
Trees often mistaken for it
Check the leaves, bark and shape before you decide how to prune or treat.
Where norway spruce grows
Native range: Northern and central Europe; widely planted in the northern and eastern US as a windbreak and Christmas tree
Common in these US regions. Tap one to see other trees there.
Free tools for this tree
They run in your browser and nothing is sent anywhere. Results are estimates.
Norway Spruce: common questions
Why do Norway spruces blow over in storms?
They have shallow, wide roots and tall, dense crowns. When the soil is saturated, the roots can lose their grip. Trees in tight windbreak rows that are suddenly opened up are also at higher risk.
How can I tell a Norway spruce from other spruces?
The branches droop, and the side twigs hang down like curtains. The cones are long, typically 4-7 inches, and are among the longest of any spruce.
How fast does Norway spruce grow?
It grows at a medium to fairly fast pace when young, typically 1-2 feet a year in good conditions, then slows with age.
Why are the needles on my Norway spruce turning brown from the bottom up?
Possible causes include drought, root problems, canker disease or needle cast. Check watering first, then ask an arborist or extension office.
Is Norway spruce a good Christmas tree?
It is a common choice, but needles drop faster than on many firs once the tree dries out. Keep a cut tree in water.
Can I plant Norway spruce as a privacy screen?
Many people do, but it gets large. Plant with proper spacing so air can flow, and keep it away from buildings and power lines.
More trees in the same regions
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