Balsam Fir Tree

The Balsam Fir is a majestic evergreen tree ideal for cold climates and large landscapes. Growing 40-60 feet tall with a narrow, conical shape, it is perfect for creating a natural screen or windbreak. This "Lake States" variety is adapted to the northern regions of the United States, including the Great Lakes area. Balsam Fir trees have been popular Christmas trees and holiday decorations in North America due to their classic conical shape and long-lasting and fragrant needles. The tree’s dense, symmetrical growth makes it an excellent choice for creating privacy screens or windbreaks, offering year-round shelter and protection. Its attractive cones and rich green foliage provide visual interest and beauty, adding seasonal charm to gardens throughout the year.

Also Known As: Abies Balsamea Lake States, Balsam Fir Lake States, Eastern Balsam Fir, Northern Balsam Fir, Lake States Balsam Fir, Balsam Fir, Abies Balsamea, Balsam Fir (Abies Balsamea), Lake States Abies Balsamea, Northern Abies Balsamea.

Plant Name:	Tree, Balsam Fir Lake States
Latin Name:	Abies balsamea Lake States
Days to Germinate:	14-28
Plant Height:	40 - 60 Feet
Spread:	15 - 25 Feet
Growth Habit:	Upright
USDA Zones:	3-7
Lifespan:	Perennial
Brand:	TomorrowSeeds
Sunlight:	Full Sun, Partial Shade
Pollination:	Heirloom, Open-Pollinated
GMO:	No
Fungicide-Treated Seeds*:	No
Seeds Packed For**:	2025

*Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds.
**Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates.

Planting Instructions:

Soil Preparation:

Choose a clear, sunny location that is not in the shade of other trees and receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Trees establish roots better in sandy, well-drained soils rather than heavy, poorly drained soil. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 6-8 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some sand or compost to improve drainage. Optionally, either form rows of soil beds or hills 4-6 inches high and at least 15 feet apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage, ensure good airflow, and make harvesting or maintenance easier.

Planting:

Starting Indoors: Seeds require cold, moist stratification to break dormancy. To stratify, roll seeds in a damp paper towel and place in a resealable bag. Place the bag in the refrigerator to keep seeds at 35F-40F for 30-60 days, mimicking winter conditions. After the stratification period, seeds should be ready to germinate. To germinate seeds, place the bags in a warm 70F-90F area. After 10 days, plant the seeds in small pots with moist potting soil and in a warm, sunny location that is at least 65F, about 1 month before the last expected frost in spring. Keep the soil moist, allowing the top inch of soil to dry in between waterings.

Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves and are at least 6 inches in height, harden off seedlings then transplant outdoors in the spring, in a sunny location when temperatures are consistently above 60F. To transplant seedlings, prepare a transplant hole outdoors in a sunny, permanent location. Remove the plants carefully from the pots or flats and set them in the transplant holes, burying some of the stem in the ground. Pack the soil loosely around the plant and leave a slightly sunken area around each plant to hold water. Water the plants after transplanting.

Directly Sowing: If directly sowing outdoors, plant seeds in late summer to naturally cold-stratify seeds. To plant, make holes 1 inch deep and spaced 30-40 feet apart down the rows of raised beds. Plant 1 seed per hole, then cover thinly with soil. Seedbeds can be covered with plastic film to promote germination. Water after planting.

Planting Depth:	1 inch
Within-Row Spacing:	15-25 feet
Between-Row Spacing:	25 feet

Care During the Season:

Balsam Fir Lake States Tree prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil and plenty of sunlight, though it can tolerate partial shade. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, but the tree prefers moist, cool conditions, so avoid overwatering or allowing the roots to sit in waterlogged soil. Mulching around the base helps maintain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from temperature fluctuations. Pruning should be minimal, focusing on removing any dead or damaged branches in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and health. Fertilizing with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring can encourage strong growth, while maintaining a cool, shaded environment is key to the tree's overall vitality during warmer months.