Growth Rate

• The University of Montana Extension Services states that a growth rate of a Colorado blue spruce averages 12 inches per year, which can be achieved in an ideal planting location. Engelmann spruce trees grow slowly and only attain approximately 25 feet in 40 years of life. Young spruce trees tend to average 3 to 4 inches of growth per year, the University of Montana Extension Service further states.
  
  

Life Span

• Spruce trees live a long life under ideal conditions. The trees can live up to 200 years. Sizes vary with varieties and cultivars. Dwarf cultivars also exist. Spruce trees prefer slightly acidic soil. A pH of 5.5 to 7.0 is ideal. Growth rate is increased with supplemental irrigation.
  
  

Considerations

• Spruce trees can be planted in the early spring or fall. Avoid planting spruce trees in heavy clay soil because the dirt can easily become waterlogged and the tree's root system will rot. The tree benefits from having adequate mulch applied around its root system to help protect it from the summer heat and spring thawing.