I'm fairly new to Colorado, so I was wondering about what I'm hearing from a few local nurseries. I am told that Dwarf Alberta Spruce and Bird's Nest Spruce must be grown in full shade here. I'm confused. We grew those in full sun in Illinois. I know the sun is more intense here, but full shade seems rather extreme. Then I drive around and see rather large ones on the south sides of homes in full sun, and have even seen some in containers. I was told by someone from the Aurora water department that they shouldn't even be allowed to sell arborvitae in Colorado because they do so poorly, yet I often see nice ones around town. So what gives? Is there a trick to growing these plants, or is it strictly a microclimate issue?