Douglas Fir Data Sheet

• Common name: Douglas fir

• Latin name: Pseudotsuga menziesii

• Genus: Pseudotsuga

• Height: 100 m (331 ft)

• Type: Evergreen

• Hardiness: Zone 4–6

• Conservation status: Least concern

Pseudotsuga menziesii, commonly known as the Douglas fir, is a conifer native to the United States. Its range extends across Columbia to California.

This tree is generally found at low to medium altitudes, mostly from 100 m (328 ft) to 1,900 m (6,230 ft).

The Douglas fir is a large conifer reaching a height of 100 m (331 ft). The trunk diameter can reach 3 m. The bark is rough and dark brown with some grey coloration. The needles are 4 cm long with a bright green colour. The cones are 5 cm long and hang from the branches. young cones are green, maturing to a light brown colour.

It can live up to 300 years.

This species is often used as a Christmas tree. It is widely used in timber production and landscaping.

Pre Germination

These seeds need no pretreatment or stratification before sowing. They are one of the few firs that don't require treatment. Fill trays or pots with  quality compost and firm down gently. Spread seeds across the surface; around 25 in a 10 cm pot is ideal. Cover with 3 mm of compost and gently firm down.

Keep compost damp, not soaking wet or dried out. Place pots or trays on a warm windowsill or in a warm conservatory. Germination should occur at 1–3 weeks.

Post Germination

Keep seedlings in a bright, well-ventilated area to avoid damping off disease. Ensure seedlings never dry out or become waterlogged. These seedlings are medium to large and delicate. Seedlings can be separated into 4" pots at 15–20 weeks; by this stage they are frost hardy and can stay outside. Fertilization is not required up to this point. During spring and summer we advise using an NPK 10-10-10 fertilizer every 4 weeks.

CAUTION: Slugs and snails love juicy young pines and spruce. Mice take seeds... tasty!

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