Doug fir leader - Ask Extension
Hi,
We live in Portland and just planted a Douglas fir in a our yard. I noticed the tree we were given has been pruned and had the original leader an...
Knowledgebase
Doug fir leader #778299
Asked November 23, 2021, 6:33 PM EST
Hi,
We live in Portland and just planted a Douglas fir in a our yard. I noticed the tree we were given has been pruned and had the original leader and new leader pruned. Is this concerning for establishing a healthy tree? I’ve attached a picture below. We are replacing a maple tree that died from vertillicum wilt and are hoping to replace it with a healthy tree resistant to the fungus.
Thank you for your advice!
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
Douglas-fir typically grow with a single dominant "leader". They may grow multiple tops after pruning or damage to the main leader. But it should not be a major health problem. You can prune the forks and get back to a single dominant leader. A single dominant leader is generally desirable for development of a strong tree that is resistant to damage or breakage during storms (wind, snow, or ice).
Keep in mind that under good conditions, Douglas-fir will grow pretty fast (2-4 feet annual height growth) and get very large (could be 100 feet tall in 35-40 years). Best to make sure your planting spot is suitable for this based on your objectives and landscape setting.
Providing adequate but not excessive soil moisture during establishment (first 2 years) is important to avoid transplant shock in saplings of this size. Long-term health will depend on adequate sunlight (full sun is best) and moisture, but also well-drained soil. Douglas-fir do not thrive in wet/poorly drained soils.
Keep in mind that under good conditions, Douglas-fir will grow pretty fast (2-4 feet annual height growth) and get very large (could be 100 feet tall in 35-40 years). Best to make sure your planting spot is suitable for this based on your objectives and landscape setting.
Providing adequate but not excessive soil moisture during establishment (first 2 years) is important to avoid transplant shock in saplings of this size. Long-term health will depend on adequate sunlight (full sun is best) and moisture, but also well-drained soil. Douglas-fir do not thrive in wet/poorly drained soils.
