Pacific White Fir Tree Seeds

Pacific White Fir Tree Seeds

(Abies concolor lowiana)

Abies concolor var. lowiana, commonly known as the Pacific White Fir tree, is a variety of the white fir species (Abies concolor). 

Description:

• Size: This variety typically grows to be a large tree, often reaching heights of 100-200 feet (30-60 meters) with a trunk diameter of up to 6 feet (1.8 meters).
• Needles: The needles are usually 1.5 to 3 inches (4-8 cm) long, soft to the touch, and have a bluish-green to silvery color. They are arranged in a spiral around the twig but tend to curve upwards.
• Cones: The cones are cylindrical, 3 to 6 inches (8-15 cm) long, and range from green to purple when young, maturing to a light brown.

Habitat and Range:

• Native Range: Abies concolor var. lowiana is native to the mountains of the western United States, particularly in California, Oregon, and Nevada. It is commonly found in the Sierra Nevada and the Cascade Range.
• Elevation: It typically grows at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 9,000 feet (900 to 2,700 meters).

Growth Conditions:

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
• Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
• Water: Requires moderate water but is relatively drought-tolerant once established.

Uses:

• Landscaping: Due to its attractive foliage and symmetrical shape, it is often used in landscaping and as a Christmas tree.
• Timber: The wood is used for construction, paper pulp, and other wood products.

Conservation Status:

• Not currently listed as threatened or endangered, but its habitat can be affected by logging, fire suppression, and climate change.

Additional Notes:

• Resistance: This variety is known for its resistance to certain pests and diseases, making it a resilient choice for reforestation and landscaping in suitable climates.

Zones: 7 to 8

Stratification Requirement: Seed requires 21 days cold moist stratification.

Planting Instructions: 

Stratification

• Place the soaked seeds in a plastic bag with a moist seed-starting mix.
• Refrigerate the bag at around 34-41°F (1-5°C) for 21 days cold moist stratification.

Planting

• Choose a well-drained location with full sun to partial shade.
• Prepare the soil by loosening it and adding organic matter if necessary.
• Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly press them in.
• Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil or sand, about 1/8 inch (3 mm).

Watering

• Water the area gently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Continue to water regularly, ensuring the soil stays consistently moist during the germination period.

Care

• Protect the seedlings from strong winds and extreme temperatures.
• Thin out the seedlings if they become overcrowded, giving each one enough space to grow.

Transplanting

• Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them to their permanent location.
• Choose a spot with well-drained soil and enough space for the tree to grow to its full size.
• Water the transplanted seedlings regularly until they are well established.