Silver fir origin

The silver fir (Abies alba) is a European coniferous tree species in the pine family. It grows to a height of up to 60 m and can reach an age of up to 600 years. It is known for its whitish, smooth bark and its elongated, soft needles, which are green in color and grow in clusters on the branches.

In mythology, the silver fir was often considered a sacred tree and worshipped in many cultures. For the ancient Germanic peoples, it was a symbol of eternal life force, continuous growth and inexhaustible fertility.

The silver fir is a monoecious conifer that produces both male and female flowers. The male flowers can be identified by their yellow, hanging inflorescences, while the female flowers are small and round. The needles of the silver fir are soft and grow in clusters on the branches. They are green and have a glossy surface. The cones of the silver fir are large and conical and contain the seeds of the tree. They ripen every year and open when dry, exposing the seeds.

The needles and resin of the silver fir are used in medicine. They contain essential oils and are used in the form of tea, inhalation and baths as a natural remedy for respiratory diseases, inflammation and pain. Due to its aromatic smell and resinous taste, the wood of the silver fir is also popular for making incense sticks, perfumes and in aromatherapy.

Silver fir care and location

The silver fir prefers a location with plenty of sunlight and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. However, it can also thrive in partially shaded areas and in areas with poor soil quality as long as there is sufficient water and nutrients. In hot and dry regions, the silver fir prefers locations that are shaded and the soil does not dry out completely.

Pruning silver fir

To promote growth and improve its appearance, regular pruning can be carried out on the silver fir. This is carried out in spring and involves removing dead, diseased and damaged branches.

Watering silver fir

As a result of climate change, hotter and drier periods are becoming more frequent, which has an impact on nature and especially on trees. Depending on its location and the climatic situation, the silver fir may need to be watered more frequently than before. The water requirements of the silver fir can vary depending on its size and location. In general, however, the silver fir has low water requirements and can thrive in areas with low rainfall. It is usually well adapted to dry soils and can tolerate dry periods. During the growing season, the silver fir should be watered regularly. The soil should be kept moist but not wet. The next watering should not take place until the soil has become drier again. Conventional watering with a hosepipe can result in too much water landing on the ground at once and then evaporating or running off before it reaches the roots.
With tree bath watering rings watering is more efficient and water is saved. Drip irrigation continuously releases water into the soil, allowing the shallow roots to absorb water better. The irrigation ring also covers the surface of the soil, preventing moisture from evaporating. The capacity of the tree bath irrigation rings is 55 liters and is sufficient to supply young and newly planted trees. Existing trees can tolerate more water and 15 liters per m² is a good guideline.
Attaching and filling water bags for the silver fir is easy and uncomplicated. The ring is placed around the tree trunk like a scarf. In the next step, you fill the "watering donut" with enough water until the ring is full.

Fertilizing silver firs

The best time to Fertilize of silver firs is in autumn and spring. Compost or plant manure is suitable for this. A mulch layer of bark compost in the root area helps to retain moisture in the soil and suppress the growth of weeds.

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