Knowledgebase
Privacy Trees #864793
Asked April 16, 2024, 6:24 PM EDT
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!