A brightly placed and well-maintained Nordmann fir develops splendidly. So every summer she says goodbye a little higher than she greeted him. However, many years will pass before the tree develops its full potential. These growth steps are possible.
How fast does a Nordmann fir grow per year?
The Nordmann fir grows more slowly when young and reaches a height of 2 meters after about 10 years. On average, annual growth is 25 to 30 cm in height and around 15 cm in width, with a maximum height of around 25 meters.
Growth rate depends on age
When it is young, the Nordmann fir must first grow well and form new needle mass. It therefore only grows slowly in the first four to five years. After that, the rate of growth increases steadily. Once the tree has reached its full height potential, there will inevitably be no noticeable height growth.
Tip
The weak growth at the beginning of its life makes it possible for the fir to be initially cultivated in a pot and only planted out years later.
Average growth values
The following values were determined for the average growth of the Nordmann fir:
- annual growth in height: 25 to 30 cm
- annual growth in width: about 15 cm
- maximum height: around 25 m
- maximum width: up to 8 m
- After 10 years a Nordmann fir is about 2 m high
Color of new shoots
The annual new growth can be easily observed on the conifer. This is made possible by the yellow to gray-yellow color of the freshly sprouted needles. These shoots are sensitive to frost.
Pay attention to planting distance
Under the roots of a Nordmann fir there is also a long taproot that reaches deep into the earth. The longer the tree grows in one place, the harder it is to dig up and transplant without damaging the roots. Therefore, when planting, maintain a planting distance of at least 1.5 m from other fir trees. For buildings it can even be a little more.
Stopping growth due to lack of space
Limiting natural growth can be attempted through pruning measures. Since the tree is not very tolerant of pruning and does not sprout again from old wood, it is only suitable to a limited extent for topiary cuts. It is also possible to cut off the tip. However, obtain further information so that you can then restore the typical pyramidal crown shape.
Other options for limiting growth:
- stop fertilizing
- with the exception of Epsom s alt for needle tan
- careful cutting of the taproot
