How to Care for Picea (Alberta Spruce) – Expert tips for thriving plants

Picea glauca ‘December’, also known as the Alberta Spruce, is a charming evergreen conifer with a compact, conical shape and soft, dense needles. Its fresh green colour and neat structure make it a beautiful decorative plant for both indoor and outdoor spaces, especially during the winter season.

This small spruce originates from North America and is naturally adapted to cooler climates. When grown as a decorative houseplant or seasonal indoor plant, it brings a cozy forest feeling into your home.

Picea care: 10 expert tips for growing it successfully

1. Place your Picea in a bright location with plenty of natural light.
2. A cool room with indirect sunlight is ideal.
3. Keep the soil slightly moist but never waterlogged.
4. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
5. Use well-draining potting soil to keep the roots healthy.
6. Feed the plant occasionally during the growing season.
7. Keep temperatures between 10–20°C for best results.
8. Avoid placing the plant near heaters or radiators.
9. Repot every few years if the roots outgrow the pot.
10. Regularly check the plant for pests.

Picea care tips

Light requirements for Picea

Picea glauca ‘December’ grows best in bright light. Place it near a window where it receives plenty of natural daylight. A location with indirect sunlight works best indoors.

Too little light may cause the plant to lose its compact shape.

Expert tip! Rotating the plant occasionally helps it grow evenly on all sides.

Watering

Picea prefers consistently slightly moist soil. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.

Make sure excess water can drain away easily to prevent root rot.

Expert tip! Check the soil regularly, especially in warmer rooms, as the plant can dry out faster indoors.

Nutrition

During spring and summer, your Picea can benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced plant fertiliser. This supports healthy growth and vibrant green needles.

In autumn and winter, fertilising is usually not necessary.

Temperature & humidity

Picea glauca prefers cooler temperatures compared to many houseplants. Ideal temperatures are between 10–20°C.

Avoid placing the plant near heat sources such as radiators, fireplaces or heaters, as dry heat can cause the needles to dry out.

Soil & repotting

Use well-draining potting soil for your Picea. Repotting is usually only necessary every few years, especially if the plant grows larger.

Choose a pot slightly bigger than the current one and make sure it has drainage holes to prevent excess moisture from accumulating.

Propagating Picea

Picea plants are usually propagated from cuttings, although this process can take some patience.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Cut a healthy young shoot from the plant.
2. Remove the lower needles from the cutting.
3. Plant the cutting in moist potting soil.
4. Keep the soil slightly moist while roots develop.
5. Place the cutting in a bright, sheltered location.

Propagation can take time, but with patience the cutting may develop into a new plant.

Most common pests on Picea

Picea plants can occasionally attract pests such as spider mites, aphids or scale insects.

Regularly inspect the branches and needles for any signs of pests. Keeping the plant healthy and well-watered helps prevent most pest problems.

Is Picea poisonous for your pets or children?

Picea glauca is generally considered non-toxic to pets and humans. However, the needles can be a little sharp, so it’s best to keep the plant out of reach of curious pets or small children.

Buy your new Picea online at PLNTS.com

Looking for a charming evergreen plant? At PLNTS.com you can buy Picea Glauca ‘December’ online in multiple sizes.

Whether you want a compact decorative tree or a larger statement plant, this beautiful spruce will bring a fresh, natural touch to your home or garden.