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Agri-gel

Balsam Fir

bare-root trees
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Abies balsamea

45-75' One of the most abundant of our native conifers.

Narrow, conical, smooth-barked. Twigs, inner bark, needles and sap are all medicinal. Small “blisters” contain a transparent aromatic resin that has been traditionally used as an inhalant for headaches and congestion, and as a salve for cuts and arthritis. Needle tea is rich in vitamin C.

The fragrant boughs are a favorite for wreaths; the needles used in scented pillows and potpourri. The best of all conifers for a Christmas tree!

Prefers well-drained moist acid soil. Avoid polluted areas. Semi-shade tolerant, slow growing. Good hedge or specimen tree, songbird nesting area or rabbit thicket. Native from Labrador to upper eastern U.S. Z3.

(bare-root trees)
ships in spring
Quick Details
Hardy to Zone
3
Compare
Compare with other Fir
Variety Product Type Hardy to Zone
Balsam Fir bare-root trees 3
Korean Fir bare-root trees 5
Additional Information

Conifers

Conifers include Fir, Pine, and Spruce trees. Grow them for Christmas trees and seasonal greenery, or leave them in your landscape to grow tall, and enjoy the sound of the winter wind rustling through the needles. Most of the conifers we sell are native to North America, and all provide beauty and habitat year round.

Growing Conifers

  • Soil: Tolerate a wide range of soil conditions; most prefer slight acidity.
  • Sun: Most tolerate some shade.
  • Planting: If you are planting in dry or well-drained areas, dip tree roots in a solution of Agri-gel before planting to protect roots from drying out. Do not soak conifers in the Agri-gel solution; a good dipping is sufficient.

    It is better to prune the roots than to crowd them in the hole; you can shear back roots by about a third of their length. Dig a small hole or make an incision with a spade and slip the tree in to the level it grew in the nursery. Fan the roots out. Water well and pack the earth down with your feet to remove air pockets.

    Periodic deep watering is far more beneficial than frequent sprinkling. Fertilization is not necessary in the first year. In later years you may fertilize around the drip line.

  • Pruning: To make evergreens dense and compact, prune back the central leader and the center bud on the end of each side branch. Otherwise, leave them alone.

Shipping

Items from our perennial plants warehouse ordered on or before February 20 will ship from March through early May, starting with warmer areas and finishing in colder areas.

Orders placed after February 20 will ship from April to May.