Balsam Fir

Name: Balsam Fir
Brand: Grasshopper Gardens
SKU: BF-001
Price: 69.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.8 (38 reviews)

Incredible Natural Fragrance
Ideal for Cold Climates
Long Lifespan Investment

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4-6′ Ball and Burlap

$286.99

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We guarantee that your plants and trees will arrive happy and healthy. If you’re not satisfied after receiving your trees and plants, we’ll replace them at no cost to you. Trees and plants are living organisms and require care, maintenance, and protection to survive, root in, and establish properly. Trees that do not survive despite receiving the proper care, maintenance, and protection within the first year will be considered for a one-time replacement. If you purchased plants outside of your growing zone recommendation, or have not properly cared for your new plants as described in your welcome letter, your purchase won’t be covered by our Grasshopper guarantee.
FREE Local Delivery

Grasshopper Gardens offers free home delivery to customers in our local service areas. Experience the convenience of having your plants delivered straight to your home, free of charge, saving you time and effort.

Our local delivery area reaches as far north as Schroon Lake, south to Voorheesville, Glenmont, and East Greenbush areas, parts of Fulton and Montgomery counties, much of Washington County, and all areas in between. If you have questions on local delivery, give us a call at

518-793-9623.
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Balsam Fir

Sunlight
Can grow in a range from full sun to partial shade. They need at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight per day.
Watering
Regular watering schedule for the first six months. Once established, rainwater should be sufficient.
Fertilizing
Should not need any extra fertilizer unless your entire lawn and garden have problems and needs regular fertilizing.

Balsam Fir

The balsam fir is a medium-sized conifer belonging to the Pinaceae (pine) family. It grows naturally in the northern United States and Canada, thriving in cool climates and dense forests.

Scientific Name: Abies balsamea
Common Names: Balsam fir, Canadian balsam, balm of Gilead tree

Key Characteristics of Balsam Fir

✅ Appearance

Height: 40–60 feet (can reach up to 80 feet in ideal conditions)
Spread: 20–25 feet
Shape: Narrow, conical, and symmetrical—perfect for ornamental use
Needles: Flat, dark green, soft, and aromatic
Bark: Smooth with resin-filled blisters (especially in young trees)

✅ Cones

Upright cones, typically 2–4 inches long
Purple when young, turning brown at maturity
Disintegrate on the tree rather than dropping whole

✅ Fragrance

Known for its fresh, citrusy evergreen scent, often used in essential oils and holiday décor

Native Habitat and Growing Zones

The balsam fir thrives in:

USDA Hardiness Zones 3–6
Cool, moist climates
Elevations and northern forests

It is commonly found in:

Northeastern United States (Maine, Vermont, New York)
Great Lakes region
Eastern and central Canada

Ideal Growing Conditions

Light Requirements

Prefers full sun to partial shade
Best growth occurs in areas with consistent sunlight

Soil Requirements

Moist, well-drained soil
Slightly acidic to neutral pH
Tolerates loamy or sandy soils

Watering Needs

Requires consistent moisture, especially when young

Planting & Care

1. Planting: This is a large landscape tree and as such, requires a bit of planning before planting. First, measure the area where you would like to plant your hedge or row. You will need the length of the area of planting to estimate the number of trees you need.

When planting, dig a hole for each tree that is three times as wide as the root ball but just as deep. Place the tree, fill in around the tree with the same soil you took out when initially digging the hole. Finally, tamp down as you fill to cut back on any air pockets from forming, water the tree, then mulch to conserve moisture.

2. Watering: For the first two weeks, water your new tree every other day by holding a hose around it and counting to 20. If you don’t have a hose, 2 large watering cans full of water will do (smaller trees may only need a light soaking so a single can may suffice).

Related Resources

FAQs

Is balsam fir a true fir?
Yes – Abies balsamea is a true fir, and one giveaway is its erect cones that sit upright on branches.
Why does balsam fir smell so good?
Its needles and bark contain aromatic resin; the bark blisters hold a fragrant resin known as Canadian/Canada balsam.
Is Balsam Fir good for wildlife?
Absolutely. It provides:
- Shelter for birds and small mammals
- Winter cover
- Nesting habitats

Shipping Details

Estimated Shipping Time: Most orders ship immediately. As noted on the website, some items are seasonal, and may only ship in spring or fall. Once your order is shipped, you’ll receive an email with a tracking number.

Amount of Order	Shipping Charge
Local Delivery	FREE SHIPPING
Non-Local Delivery	Varies based on UPS shipping

Mature Height	Large: Up to 30 ft or more
Mature Spread	10-20 ft
Growth Rate	Moderate
Botanical Name	Abies balsamea
Bloom Time	Non Flowering
Deer Resistant	Usually
Family	Pinaceae
Flower Color	Non Flowering
Hardiness Zones	3, 4, 5, 6
Maintenance	Medium
Light Needs	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Size	4-6′ Ball and Burlap

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