How to Grow Abies

Abies, also known as Fir Trees, are tall evergreen conifers. The vivid green and perfect conical shape makes them a great candidate for a Christmas tree! A species called Korean Fir is suitable for small gardens, with a mature height of 4-9 m, and even planting in pots. The upright cones are particularly attractive which come in various colours and sizes depending on the species and cultivars.

Full sun to part shade in cool and temperate climates

Regular watering

Well drained soils rich in organic matter

Suitable for most climatic zones.

How to grow abies in your garden

Step 1

Choose a sunny spot with well drained soil. Enrich the soil with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser. In areas with heavy or clay soil, to help improve soil structure and drainage, add gypsum and mix in well.

Step 2

Dig the planting hole twice as wide and to the same depth as the root-ball. Remove the tree from the container, gently tease the roots and cut away any circled or tangled roots.

Step 3

Position in hole and backfill with soil, gently firming down. Form a raised or doughnut shaped ring of soil around the outer edge of the plant's root zone. This helps keep water where it's needed. Always water in well after planting to settle the soil around the roots and keep the soil moist for several weeks while the new plant establishes.

Step 4

Mulch around the base with organic mulch like bark chips, sugarcane or pea straw, keeping it away from the trunk.

Step 5

Water deeply, once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.

Step 6

Feed in autumn and spring with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser to promote strong root development & healthy foliage.

How to grow abies in a pot

Step 1

Pick a compact variety that can be grown in a pot. Choose a pot at least 500mm wide and deep. Position in full sun.

Step 2

Fill chosen pot with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter. Remove the shrub from the container, gently tease the roots and cut away any circled or tangled roots.

Step 3

Position in hole and backfill with potting mix, gently firming down. Water in well.

Step 4

Water deeply, once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.

Step 5

Feed in autumn and spring with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser to ensure strong root development & healthy foliage.

Growing tips

Grow in full sun to part shade in cool and temperate climates (hot summers can take their toll).
Some varieties include:
- Himalayan Fir (Abies spectabilis)
- Fraser Fir (Abies fraseri)
- Korean Fi (Abies koreana)
- Golden Korean Fir (Abies koreana 'Aurea')
- Silver Snow Korean Fir (Abies koreana "Silver Snow")
Abies prefer accidic to neutral soil.
To maintain their natural conical shape, avoid pruning these trees.