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Privacy Trees #864793

Asked April 16, 2024, 6:24 PM EDT

Is the Iseli Fastigiate Blue Spruce susceptible to disease in MN? I was hoping to be able to plant this columnar. I need something upright that will get at least 15 ft tall and have minimal shedding. This will a privacy tree wall near an in-ground pool.

Stearns County Minnesota

Expert Response

Dear John,

Thanks for reaching out! I would recommend planting a different tree. Blue Spruce trees are not recommended for Minnesota landscapes due to susceptibility to several debilitating spruce diseases, including Rhizosphaera needle cast and Cytospora canker.

Here is a UMN Extension article with alternative options: https://extension.umn.edu/trees-and-shrubs/choosing-evergreens-your-landscape

Another helpful link may be this: https://extension.umn.edu/trees-and-shrubs/trees-and-shrubs-minnesota-landscapes

Smaller upright junipers or columnar arborvitae will mature at 20 to 30 feet, depending on the variety.

Good luck!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 18, 2024, 3:55 AM EDT

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