It is widely used as a Christmas tree and for wreaths. It smells great! It’s a good specimen fir for the landscape, and as an ornamental yard tree. However, it should not be planted in a Zone number higher than Zone 5. The pungent resin yields Canada balsam, used in the manufacture of varnish as well as an adhesive for mounting microscope slides. Snowshoe hares use the trees as cover.

Balsam Fir is susceptible to spruce budworm. A favourite holiday tree.

Quick Growing Guide

Botanical Name: Abies balsamea

Also Called: Canada Balsam, Sapin blanc

En français: Sapin baumier

Water: Likes a lot of water

Soil:

Hardiness Zones:

Its natural habitat: Forests, native to central and eastern Canada, northeastern United States.

Caring for Balsam Fir

This tree does best in cool areas; does not tolerate heat and is shade tolerant. Low pollution tolerance. Shallow root system makes it easy to transplant.

Balsam Fir tolerates a variety of soil types but does best in well-drained acidic soils with pH 5.0 – 6.0 and can survive in wetland conditions.

Companion plant suggestions include The Pinaceae (pine family) are trees or shrubs, including cedars, firs, hemlocks, larches, pines and spruces.

Comments

Leave a Reply

More From Gardening Calendar

Easy Care Pothos Plant

Pothos plant, Epipremnum aureum, is one of the best plants for clean indoor air. It is easy care, versatile for pots, hanging baskets, totems.

Growth and Care for Prickly Pear Cactus

Add the distinctive Prickly Pear Cactus to your garden and get vibrant yellow flowers! Enjoy its edible fruit, flowers, stems, and leaves. Learn the best growing conditions and how to care for it. Enjoy this unique, cold-hardy cactus, with over 100 species distinguished by its spiny, club-shaped pads.

The Ultimate Guide To Garden Mulching

Many gardeners aren’t aware of the myriad benefits mulching can bring to your garden. If you’re looking for healthier soil, fewer pests, stronger plants, and a more attractive garden, then mulch could very well be the answer.

Rain Barrel Tips

Rain barrels are a great way to collect water to use on your lawn and garden. Here are tips on how to save on your water bill.