HOW TO PLANT YOUR NORWAY SPRUCE TUBELING

If you receive one of the ( Picea abies) Norway Spruce tubelings to be distributed at Communiversity, here's how to plant and care for it :

1. Choose a proper site for your tree, taking into account the adult size, which can reach a trunk diameter of 2 feet, and a mature height of 80 feet.

2. Loosen the soil in an area about 18 inches in diameter and 8 inches deep.

3. Clear a spot in the middle of the soil, 2-3 times as wide as the tube.

4. REMOVE THE SEEDLING FROM THE TUBE. For easy removal, wet the roots heavily first. Recycle the tube or send it back to the NJ Forest Service.

5. Place the roots in the soil before they start to dry.

6. Set the seedling at the proper planting depth by placing the root collar ( where the seedling's stem meets the roots) at the level of the surrounding grade.

7. Lightly pack the soil around the roots with your hands.

8. Apply 2 inches of mulch, such as wood chips.

9. Protect the tree from foot traffic, weed eaters and lawnmowers.

10. Water  well, and regularly through the first summer and year.