A Nordmann fir cannot be persuaded to shed its needles so quickly. This is precisely why this type of fir is so popular as a Christmas tree but also in the garden. But even for them, at some point the limit of what they can bear is exceeded. Then it trickles
How do I prevent my Nordmann fir from needling?
To prevent a Nordmann fir from needling, it should be slowly acclimated to heat, watered properly and not placed too close to the heater. In the garden, suitable location, sufficient irrigation and protection from air pollution are crucial.
Causes of needle loss
In short, the following circumstances can be blamed for needling: dryness, heat and air pollution. Let us take a closer look at the triggering situation below. It makes sense to differentiate depending on whether the tree is planted in the garden or in the house as a Christmas tree.
Nordmann fir as a Christmas tree
In our latitudes, no one would think of celebrating Christmas outside. So the Nordmann fir has to move into the living room. It should be clear to everyone that it doesn't last long there, because a living room is not a suitable habitat for this outdoor plant. But some specimens do not manage to keep their needles on the branches until Christmas Eve. To avoid this, do the following:
- Christmas fir slowly getting used to the warmth
- After purchase, put it in a cool place
- for example in a garage or stairwell
- Never let the root ball dry out completely
- Provide the tree with water as needed and daily
- Avoid needle damage caused by dry air
- Do not place the tree close to the heater
- Spray branches with water daily
Tip
If you would like to plant a Nordmann fir tree with intact roots in the garden after the festival, you should also gradually accustom it to the cold outside.
Nordmann fir in the garden
For a Nordmann fir in the garden, the location and water supply must be mostly right so that it retains its needles. This type of fir tree is also extremely sensitive to air pollution. In the latter case, there is little that can be done about it other than not allowing the fir tree to be located on a busy road. Otherwise, you can prevent needle loss with the following measures:
- plant in a sunny or semi-shady place
- but with air movement so that heat doesn't build up
- Northern slopes are particularly popular
- water young plants frequently because their taproot still needs to grow
- also water older specimens in long dry periods
- Nordmann firs are evergreen conifers
- therefore, even in winter, water on frost-free days
Tip
To prevent the Nordmann fir from having brown needles, you should fertilize it regularly with a special fir fertilizer or give it a portion of Epsom s alt.
