PPDL Picture of the Week
June 27, 2015
Dwarf Spruce
Rosie Lerner, Extension Consumer Horticulture Specialist, Purdue University
This is a dwarf spruce (probably a Dwarf Alberta Spruce or similar) that is reverting back to the original species. The dwarf versions are the mutated forms and occasionally, they will have a bud that reverts back to the normal species. The normal species will be far more vigorous and obviously much larger than the dwarf and that shoot should be removed asap. Make the pruning cut as close to the origin as possible without wounding the main trunk. If allowed to remain, it will quickly dominate the plant.
Photo credit: John Knipp