Plant Health Care
Choosing the Right Trees for Otter Lake Landscapes
| Apr 19, 2025
Eastern White Pine trees in a nursery. | Steven Katovich, Bugwood.org
As Cytospora canker claims more of Otter Lake’s Blue Spruces, many residents are faced with the task of replanting. This challenge also presents an opportunity to diversify our urban forest with species better suited to our local climate.
While Blue Spruces are beautiful, they're not native to Michigan and struggle with our climate. When replanting, consider native species that are naturally adapted to our conditions and resistant to local pests and diseases.
Five excellent alternatives to Colorado Blue Spruce include:
1. Eastern White Pine: Michigan's state tree, it's well-adapted to our climate and provides similar year-round greenery.
Eastern White Pine. | David Stephens, Bugwood.org
2. Northern White Cedar: Known as Arborvitae plants in the nursery trade, this is another native evergreen that's highly resistant to most disease and insect pests. Spring Grove and Green Giant varieties are resistant to deer feeding, too.
Arborvitate plants in a nursery. | Anthony LeBude, NC State University, Bugwood.org Green giant arborvitae used as a screening hedge. | Richard Webb, Bugwood.org
3. Red Pine: Known for its reddish bark, this native pine is drought-tolerant and long-lived.
Red pine trees in a nursery. | Steven Katovich, Bugwood.org
4. Norway Spruce: While not native, it's more resistant to Cytospora canker than Blue Spruce. It is also less likely to be attacked by mites or needlecast, two other common problems with blue spruce.
Norway spruce trees used as a screen. | Richard Webb, Bugwood.org
5. Concolor Fir: Also known as White Fir, it has a similar appearance to Blue Spruce but better disease resistance.
Concolor fir tree. | John Ruter, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org
When replanting, remember to diversify. A mix of species in your yard and neighborhood can help prevent widespread loss from any single disease or insect pest. Proper planting and care are crucial for establishing healthy new trees. Consider consulting with one of our ISA Certified Arborists for guidance.
By choosing the right trees and caring for them properly, we can create a more resilient urban forest for Otter Lake, one that will thrive for generations to come.