Prairie Gold® Aspen

An Adaptable Mountain Species Standout

The Prairie Gold® Aspen is best-known for its beautiful fall foliage that turns into a honeyed yellow color. In the summer, the tree is coated with light green, small, round leaves that tremble in the breeze. The white bark also stands out against other trees, blending into the snow once the leaves have fallen.

Native to Nebraska, this deciduous mountain species is a great addition to natural or woodland settings. It can grow on its own or as a collection in a grove. It provides a lovely contrast when placed near textured evergreen trees.

Considered highly adaptable, the Prairie Gold® Aspen is very disease-tolerant and well-versed in the heat and drought of the Midwestern prairie. It can handle almost all soil conditions, even standing water. With the right care, it can live for well over 50 years.

Grow this popular high-elevation tree this year, and place your Prairie Gold® Aspen order online today!

Planting & Care

1. Planting:  Plant your tree in an area that receives full sunlight. Avoid planting under power lines and other structures, ensuring there is room to accommodate the fully grown tree at 20 ft. tall and 15 ft. wide. The tree can handle most soil conditions but thrives in well-draining soil.

Before planting, prep the soil by mixing in compost. Hold the tree straight as you backfill the hole with your native soil. Once planted, water deeply and apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

2. Watering: The Prairie Gold® Aspen is very tolerant of varying water conditions, able to withstand both dry and moist conditions. Water frequently and deeply in the first year while the tree gets established afterward. No supplemental watering is required in the following years.

3. Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to boost growth when the tree is young. Fertilize the surrounding soil rather than the tree directly. 

4. Pruning: Pruning is best done in late winter once extreme conditions have passed. It is very prone to suckers at the base of the tree, which should be regularly trimmed.