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Abies balsamea
balsam fir
Abies balsamea
Balsam fir is a small to medium-sized evergreen coniferous tree native to northeastern North America. It's known for its fragrant needles, which are flat and soft to the touch, and its distinctive conical shape. The tree produces small, upright cones that disintegrate when mature, releasing their winged seeds. Balsam fir is an important component of boreal forests and is widely used for Christmas trees due to its pleasing aroma and shape. Its resin is also used in various medicinal and industrial applications.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Medicinal UsageMedicinal Usage
Duration to maturity10 years to harvest
Estimated Plant Lifespan150 years lifespan
Sun Requirements2-4 hours direct sunlight (Partial Shade)
Pollination

Method: Wind pollination

Watering Requirements

Method: Top watering

Frequency: Keep consistently moist, but not waterlogged

Notes: Water more frequently during dry periods or hot weather.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate to high

Maintenance: Misting may be beneficial during dry periods.

Cleaning RequirementsBalsam fir prefers acidic soil. Avoid excessive fertilization. Protect young trees from harsh sun and frost.
Temperature Range

Min: -40°C

Max: 25°C

Clintonia borealis
bluebead lily
Clintonia borealis
Bluebead lily thrives in the same acidic, moist soil conditions as balsam fir and provides ground cover, reducing weed competition.
Linnaea borealis
Twinflower
Linnaea borealis
Twinflower is a low-growing, shade-tolerant plant that tolerates the acidic soil conditions preferred by balsam fir and creates a visually appealing understory.
Picea mariana
black spruce
Picea mariana

Black spruce can aggressively compete with balsam fir for resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients, especially in drier sites, potentially stunting the growth of balsam fir.

Betula papyrifera
paper birch
Betula papyrifera

Paper birch, while not directly competitive in dense shade, can outcompete balsam fir in open areas due to its rapid growth and ability to utilize resources efficiently, potentially overwhelming young balsam fir seedlings.

Balsam woolly adelgid

A small insect that feeds on the sap of balsam fir, causing stunted growth, needle discoloration, and eventual tree death. Symptoms include white, woolly masses on the twigs and branches.

Spruce budworm

A moth larva that feeds on the needles of balsam fir, defoliating the tree and causing significant damage, potentially leading to tree mortality. Symptoms include needle loss and overall tree weakening.

Steps:

    • Collect mature seeds from cones in the fall.
    • Allow seeds to dry and clean them of any debris.
    • Sow seeds in a well-drained seed starting mix.
    • Keep the seeds moist and in a cool location.
    • Germination usually takes several weeks to months.

Neem oil

Effective against several common balsam fir pests, including adelgids and some mites.

Insecticidal soap

Can help control soft-bodied insects such as aphids and mites that may infest balsam fir.