A tree from a New Year's fairy tale: Nordman's fir in landscape design

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The Nordmann fir (Abies Nordmanniana) is named after Alexander von Nordmann, the professor of botany who first described this species. The plant has 2 more common names in everyday life: 1. Danish Christmas tree (it came from the fact that in Denmark it has been grown for more than 200 years as a decoration for the new year). 2. Caucasian fir. The name is associated with the original distribution area.

A tree from a New Year's fairy tale: Nordman's fir in landscape design

The tree is widely used in landscape design, since it does not require additional crown formation and complex manipulations during cultivation. It has been used as a Christmas tree for over 200 years.

Description of Nordman fir

Thanks to its ideal crown shape, fluffy needles and some other qualities, Nordmann fir has been considered the most beautiful tree for New Year's celebrations for over 100 years. But more on that later. After all, these trees are so noble and unique that they deserve closer attention as garden plants.

The Caucasian fir (Nordmann) was first discovered in the Caucasus (Armenian Highlands) by a Russian naturalist from Finland, Alexander von Nordmann, in the 1830s. In honor of its discoverer for Europeans, the tree received a specific name. Already in 1840, the seeds of the Caucasian fir came from Russia to Europe, where the active introduction of these trees into the culture began.

On average, the height of the Nordman fir is 50-60 m, but some specimens are known at the age of 700-800 years, which grow up to 80 m.It is not for nothing that it is one of the tallest trees not only in Russia, but also throughout the entire post-Soviet space ... Trees can reach such heights due to their rapid growth rates. If in the first 10 years of life, the growth and development rate of the Caucasian fir is not very high, the tree grows the root system and strengthens in the ground, then after 10 years it quickly rushes upward, not forgetting to build up its mighty trunk in thickness. And it can reach 2 m in diameter. True, mature trees, several hundred years old, differ in such sizes.

Comment! The Nordman fir is distinguished by its especially fast growth rates (up to 30-40 cm per year) in growing conditions close to its natural growing areas. In the conditions of the Moscow region, its annual growth does not exceed 12-15 cm per year.

Caucasian fir trees are not in vain famous for their beauty, their crown at a young age is distinguished by an ideal pyramidal shape, with branches drooping to the very ground. Even in mature trees, it retains an attractive conical shape, reaching a diameter of 9-10 m. Among the characteristics of the Nordmann fir, the life expectancy of trees also deserves considerable respect. They are distinguished by longevity, their lifespan ranges from 600 to 900 years.

Young trees are distinguished, in addition, by their decorative appearance with light and smooth bark. With age, it begins to crack and becomes less attractive. Young shoots also look interesting. They are light yellowish brown in color.

The root system of fir trees is powerful and deep, mainly of the rod type.Wood is characterized by the absence of a core. It is quite light, soft and elastic, has a pinkish tint.

The buds of brownish color do not differ in resinousness. They have the usual ovoid shape. The needles are very thin and at the same time flat with a blunt tip, in length they reach from 2 to 4 cm, and in width - 2-2.5 mm. They are located very tightly, hanging mostly down. The needles are very pleasant to the touch, soft and fluffy. Above the needles of the Nordman fir are glossy dark green, which is clearly visible in the photo.

On the underside there are two bright white stripes in which the mouths are located. Trees breathe through them. Needles are able to stay on branches from 9 to 12 years. But if the tree is planted in a gassed or smoky area, then the stomata are gradually clogged and the fir may die. Therefore, fir of this type is not used for landscaping cities.

The needles, when rubbed, can emit a characteristic citrus aroma.

The cones grow straight up, reaching 12-20 cm in length, and about 5 cm in thickness. At the beginning of the growing season, they are green in color, in the mature state they become dark brown. In the Caucasian fir, flowering and seed formation begins quite late, only when the trees reach the age of 30-60 years. By the way, at the age of 30, it often reaches a height of 10 m.

The Caucasian fir blooms in April-May, and if the female flowers, cones, are easily visible, including in the photo, then the male ones, from which the pollen scatters, look like small, inconspicuous spikelets of a reddish color.

Brown seeds up to 12 mm in length with a long yellowish wing, fly out of the cones in the autumn (October-November). Each cone can contain up to 400 winged seeds.

Attention! If you want to get your own seeds from the Caucasian fir for reproduction at home, you must collect unopened cones directly from the tree no later than September.

The soil

Planting Nordman fir, like other conifers, is best done in early spring - in April - or in autumn, in September. The depth and width of the pit depends on the size of the seedling and its root system, but not less than 70 cm in depth and width. Nordman fir is undemanding to the composition of the soil, but still prefers loamy and light-textured soils. For better survival, you can prepare the land for planting yourself. To do this, you need to mix clay, humus, sand and peat in a ratio of 2: 3: 1: 1. It is recommended to add mineral fertilizer. At the bottom of the pit, it is imperative to pour drainage with a layer of 20 cm (brick chips, coarse river sand, pebbles, sawdust). It is advisable to make the distance between trees in a group planting at 3-5 meters, plants will look good alone, and a dwarf form is allowed even on a flower bed.

Where does Nordman's fir grow

The Caucasian fir got its second name precisely because of its natural habitat. The western slopes of the Caucasian ridge are the place where the fir still forms huge tracts. It is found mainly at an altitude of 900 to 2100 m in the republics of the Russian Caucasus, as well as in the countries of the Caucasus: Georgia, Abkhazia, Armenia, Turkey.

Forms mixed plantings mainly with beech and oriental spruce. The climate in these areas is characterized by a large amount of precipitation, relatively mild winters and not too hot summers.

It is these conditions in Europe that are typical for the marine climate of Denmark, where for more than 100 years cultivated varieties of the Caucasian fir have been successfully grown and sold before Christmas and New Year to all European countries.

But in the conditions of central Russia, the Caucasian fir may not feel the best way. Therefore, growing Nordmann fir in the Moscow region may be fraught with some difficulties, which, however, with a strong desire, are quite surmountable.

Tree planting conditions

The tree is unpretentious, so the features of your summer cottage will not affect its cultivation in any way. Moreover, the growing conditions can be improved artificially.

Seat selection... The Caucasian fir is actively developing areas at an altitude of about 1200 m above sea level. m. In low areas, it does not grow so well, but with ornamental cultivation, this is not important. The main feature is the ability to grow actively both in the shade and in places that are well lit. Strong winds are not terrible for the tree, but the level of humidity in the place where it grows should be high.

The soil... The tree prefers a nutritious soil, rich in mineral fertilizers. Planting is recommended in loam, but good growth is observed in more acidic soil.

Nordman's fir (Danish tree) in landscape design

Conifers have taken a firm place in landscape design over the past decades. After all, they delight the eye with green color all year round, and the coniferous aroma is able to purify the air and bring the nervous system to harmony.

Due to its massive size, the natural variety of the Caucasian fir is more suitable for large areas as a tapeworm or for decorating garden and park areas. For medium-sized plots, it is wiser to use dwarf varieties of this fir bred by breeders. They will serve as a decoration for both a rocky garden (alpine hill) and a courtyard area.

Nordman fir varieties

Breeders have bred several artificial forms of the Caucasian fir, differing in more compact size and varied color of the needles.

Golden spreader

One of the most popular Nordmann fir varieties, it is characterized by its tiny size and slow growth rates. For 10 years it grows only 1 m in height. And then it grows just as slowly. The crown diameter also does not exceed 1 m. In the center, the crown has a small but pronounced notch.

The needles are also very small, up to 2 cm in length. Above they have a golden yellow tint, below they are yellowish-white. This variety of fir is good for decorating alpine hills in the southern regions of the country.

Jadwiga

A popular variety of the Caucasian fir, characterized by particularly fast growth rates and crown density. The tree is large in adulthood. The needles are very long, two-colored: above - green, below - white.

Pendula

Quite whimsical to growing conditions, a variety with a weeping crown shape. The growth rate is very slow, but the tree is capable of reaching large sizes when mature.

Borjomi

A variety that practically does not differ in appearance and growth rate from the natural species. But depending on the growing conditions, the cones of these trees are capable of becoming purple-violet.

Growing features

Growing a seedling from seed is a complex process. In order for the seed to sprout, it is necessary to create natural wintering conditions for it. The grains are placed in the ground, making holes on top for oxygen supply, then the containers are placed in a cold place. After two months, the seeds are germinated. They grow very slowly even with very good care. Therefore, experts recommend immediately purchasing seedlings in specialized stores. It is better if the tree is 5-10 years old. At this age, it is easier to adapt to new conditions.

The distance between trees must be at least 2.5 meters

To choose a suitable place for a seedling, you need to follow the rules:

1. It is better to choose an open area that does not overlap with branches of other trees.
2. You must first apply fertilizer to the soil.
3. If fir trees are already growing on the site, then the distance between the trees should be at least 2.5 meters.

Planting and caring for Nordman fir in the open field

Caucasian fir does not require particularly careful care.It should only be understood that in a climate unlike its natural growth conditions, a more attentive attitude to trees will be required, especially in the very first years after planting. For example, in the Moscow region, planting and caring for Nordman's fir can take a certain amount of time and effort, but it will have something to boast about to neighbors.

Seedling and planting plot preparation

The Caucasian fir is rather indifferent to the light. Unlike many other conifers, it can grow well in bright sun and even in partial shade.

Since trees are characterized by a powerful root system, the planting site must be chosen at least 3 m from any buildings and other trees.

Nordman fir favors almost any soil, it cannot stand only especially acidic ones. Loams with a neutral or slightly alkaline reaction are best suited for successful growth.

Important! You should not try to grow Caucasian fir in areas near large cities or industrial centers. Most likely, it will not stand the pollution of the local air and will die.

Plants do not like frequent transplants, so the place on the site must be chosen very carefully, so as not to disturb the tree again later.

It is best to use seedlings with a whole root ball. Even small trees with open roots take root very poorly afterwards. A fir seedling suitable for planting should either grow in a container, or a voluminous earthen lump on its roots should be wrapped in additional polyethylene and tightly tied to preserve its integrity. Ideal for planting Caucasian fir seedlings at the age of 4-5 years.

When choosing a seedling, you need to carefully examine it to check if it is damaged by any pests or diseases.

How to properly plant Nordman fir

In the presence of a correctly selected seedling with a closed root system, planting it in open ground is carried out as follows:

1. Dig a hole about 25% larger than the root ball of the seedling.
2. The depth of the planting pit is made even greater in order to lay a drainage layer of rubble, gravel or broken brick on the bottom, about 10 cm high.
3. A planting mixture is prepared, consisting of peat, sand, clay and humus in a ratio of 2: 1: 1: 1. A complex mineral fertilizer is added.
4. Half of the amount of the planting mixture is placed in the pit. On top, neatly put an earthen clod of fir seedling.
5. Top and sides are covered with the remaining earthen mixture and lightly tamped.
6. Then spill water, making sure that the root collar is exactly at ground level.

After planting, the seedlings are shaded with a non-woven material for better survival. It is especially important to do this in the southern regions, where the sun may be too bright in spring.

Watering and feeding

The Caucasian fir belongs to a rather moisture-loving species, therefore, at a young age, it requires regular and abundant watering. Especially if the weather is hot and dry. In such weather, it is recommended to arrange shower trees by spraying the entire above-ground part.

Mature trees, as a rule, do not need watering anymore, unless a drought has come.

Young seedlings in the year of planting do not require additional fertilizing. And next spring, a special fertilizer for conifers in granules or Kemiru-Universal (about 100 g) is applied under each tree.

Mulching and loosening

For trees at a young age, the constantly maintained moisture content of the soil and air in the near-root zone is especially important. Therefore, immediately after planting the seedling, the entire near-stem space must be mulched with a layer of at least 5-6 cm. For this, any organic matter is used: rotted sawdust, straw, peat, bark of coniferous trees.

In addition to retaining moisture, mulch will protect young seedlings from the growth of weeds that can destroy young fir sprouts.

Every spring, the mulch layer must be renewed.

Pruning

The Caucasian fir itself is capable of forming a dense and beautiful crown, therefore, it does not need formative pruning.

In early spring, before the buds spill out, sanitary pruning is carried out - dry and damaged shoots are removed.

And the frozen twigs are recommended to be pruned only at the end of May, when the probability of the last spring frosts will go away.

Preparing for winter

Despite the fact that the winter hardiness of the root system of Nordman fir is quite high (it can withstand frosts down to -30 ° C), its young shoots can suffer at temperatures below -15-20 ° C. Therefore, she needs to cover the branches with spruce branches or a special non-woven protective material for the west of the winter period and the moment of possible spring frosts. Also, in the middle lane, it is recommended to cover the Nordman fir tree trunks with an additional layer of mulch, up to 10 cm high.

Diseases and pests

Fir is resistant to diseases. But under unfavorable growth conditions and excessive moisture, rust appears. At the first signs of the disease, the plant is treated with a solution of copper sulfate.

When a fungus occurs, the needles turn yellow and crumble at a high rate. If it is not treated, then it provokes the development of fusarium and brown shute. To prevent it, the tree is not deepened during planting and is treated with fungicides in a timely manner.

Prevention is carried out annually in April. To do this, use 1% Bordeaux liquid.

Of the pests it is worth fearing:

1. False shield. Signs: drying out of the needles, the appearance of honey drops on it. They are driven away mechanically: they set traps impregnated with special glue from caterpillar tracks.
2. Spider mite. Signs: large lumps of cobwebs between branches, yellow and brown spots on the needles. Control method: spraying the tree with garlic and dandelion infusions. It should be borne in mind that dwarf trees are much easier to cure than large ones.
3. Hermes. Signs: white bloom on the needles. The fight is carried out using strong insecticides, it is advisable to cut off the affected areas.
4. Fir moth. It is poisoned with biological products, to prevent the appearance of larvae, the earth is dug up every spring and autumn. When young caterpillars hatch, the tree is treated with drugs.
5. Caterpillars of the pine cone moth. Signs: Resin slugs, pineal brown insect excrement. The fight is done with drugs.

How to care for Nordmann's fir in a pot

Most often, Caucasian fir can be bought not in the form of a seedling for planting in the open field, but in the form of a small decorative tree in a pot for decoration for the New Year. Many people use this so as not to buy a Christmas tree every year, but to grow it at home.

Caring for Nordmann's fir in an apartment means, first of all, keeping it in the coolest and most humid conditions. Under no circumstances should a tree be placed near heating units. Watering should be regular so that the land is moist all year round. It is advisable to spray the needles daily or place a humidifier nearby.

If the house has a balcony or a glazed loggia, then it is better if the tree hibernates there. Only the container must be additionally insulated with foam or other heat-insulating material.

Reproduction

The tree propagates exclusively by seeds.

The Nordman fir is propagated exclusively by seeds. Their stratification is carried out 2 months before planting.

In nurseries, seeds are planted in containers and put away in a cool place - a basement or a special refrigerator. In the spring, they germinate in the warmth, after which the seedlings dive into larger pots.

You can try to propagate the plant yourself using seeds. They are taken out of the cones and placed in the ground in the fall. To prepare seeds, unopened cones are harvested until September.

According to the descriptions of gardeners, when planting seeds, the germination rate is extremely low.

How much does Nordman's fir grow

But it is necessary to understand that Nordman's fir is still a street plant and it will not be able to live and develop normally in an apartment forever. Under the most ideal care conditions, she will be able to survive at home for no more than 3-4 years. At the same time, she will need an annual transplant, since during this period the root system develops much more intensively than the aboveground part. But then its size will still force it to be transplanted outside, otherwise the tree will simply dry up and die.

Attention! It is best to transplant Caucasian fir into open ground in the spring before bud break. It is better to accustom the tree to outdoor conditions gradually.

Care features

The plant requires adequate lighting and optimal moisture levels.

An important stage in the care of the Caucasian fir is the first year after planting in the ground. During these months, the plant requires abundant watering. In addition, the following conditions must be created:

• mulching with chips or sawdust to get rid of weeds;
• regular fertilization;
• adequate lighting;
• maintaining an optimal level of humidity.

Attention! Fir does not like when shoots are cut off from it. Therefore, it is important to do this carefully and in early spring, when the period of sap flow has not begun.

Fir Normandy for New Year

Even more often, Nordman fir is sold before the New Year or Christmas in the form of a cut tree in special stores or at Christmas tree bazaars. Due to its luxurious appearance, it has become very popular. And many, in their reviews calling it the Norman fir, do not even suspect that under natural conditions this tree grows in Russia.

How to save Nordman fir for the New Year

These trees are much better suited as home decorations for the New Year than spruces or pines. There are several reasons for this:

• have an almost ideal cone shape with dense foliage;
• the needles have a rich green color, soft and do not prick at all;
• can delight green and fresh needles in the room for up to several months.

In order for the Nordman fir to stand longer and delight the eye with its green and fluffy appearance, it is advisable to observe the following rules:

1. They buy trees at street bazaars, where the air temperature allows them to last for a longer time.
2. Place the tree trunk in a bucket of water or in wet sand, adding a few tablespoons of glycerin to the water, which can be bought at any pharmacy.
3. Paper toys are not used to decorate fir, since for a longer preservation it is advisable to spray it every day with a spray bottle.

How many Nordman fir does not crumble

After cutting, the needles of the Nordman fir can remain green for up to 10 weeks. But since no one knows for sure when it was felled, in any case, it remains in stock from a month to two. This is a long time. Almost no coniferous tree retains its needles for so long.

Does Nordman fir smell

The needles of the natural species of the Caucasian fir are very fragrant and can fill the house with the smell of a coniferous forest for a long time. But specimens of cultivated varieties of this fir, grown abroad, do not smell at all, although they look magical. But they are usually sold everywhere before the New Year in most shopping centers.

So, if you want to get Nordman fir with the smell of a real coniferous forest, you will have to go to a specialized Russian nursery for it.

Possible diseases

The Norman fir is resistant to various diseases and parasites, but the juiciness of the needles can attract them. With poor plant growth (the wrong climate, a lack of useful components in the soil, or the wrong soil mixture), such a tree can get sick with some infections.

If the needles of a tree begin to dry out quickly, and honey drops appear on it, then the plant is ill with a false shield.You can eliminate it using burlap traps, which are impregnated with caterpillar glue.

If you take proper care of Norman's fir, it will delight gardeners with its scent and beauty for a long time. A tree rarely gets sick - it is best to prevent this by carefully monitoring its condition.