Serbian spruce (Picea omorika) is an evergreen tree native to the Balkans that grows to a height of between 40 to 60 feet, with a spread of between 15 to 20 feet. The tree boasts a narrow, pyramidal habit that does not require pruning to maintain its graceful shape. Serbian spruce is a low-maintenance tree compared with other spruces, which are more susceptible to serious problems.
Serbian spruce is susceptible to a range of pests, though none usually warrants control. Pests include bagworms, which web sacks in the branches filled with needles and debris,and aphids and spruce budworm larvae, both of which feed on new buds and needles. Bagworms can usually be plucked off by hand, while smaller pests may be washed off with a direct stream of water. Spider mites may attack during hot, dry summers, causing foliage damage. Spider mites are tiny, red spider-like insects that can be hard to see without a magnifying glass.
Serbian spruce is susceptible to needle cast, a disease caused by several types of fungi. Needle cast causes leaves to become spotted, then yellow. Dropped yellow leaves reveal evidence of fruiting brown spores. To manage the disease, cut and remove infected branches. Destroy infected branches and sterilize pruning equipment to keep the disease from spreading to healthy trees nearby. To help prevent needle cast, keep the area around the tree weed-free, and apply preventive fungicide if the tree consistently seems to contract the fungus.
Less commonly, Serbian spruce may fall prey to canker or needle rust. Needle rust causes needles to drop after first turning yellow or rust-colored in the spring. Canker may cause sunken, dead areas to occur on the lower branches of the tree, eventually moving up to higher branches. Prune and destroy infected branches. These diseases are rare on Serbian spruce and are best prevented by following proper cultural guidelines. A water-stressed or otherwise poorly cared for tree is more susceptible to disease.
Though Serbian spruce is more tolerant of atmospheric pollution than most spruces, urban conditions can still negatively affect the tree. According to Plants for a Future, growth rate and overall tree health may be affected by aluminum poisoning caused by acid rain. Serbian spruce does not grow well in shade, and it is intolerant of the salty soils and spray found in gardens exposed to the ocean. For best results, plant the tree in well-draining, rich soil in a full or partial sun location in USDA zones 4 to 7.
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