The Fraser fir is known as the Cadillac of Christmas trees, prized for its symmetrical shape, fresh fragrance, and strong branches. Closely related to the Balsam fir, Fraser fir seedlings mature to have upward-turned branches with dark blue-green needles and silvery underside. The sturdy, well-spaced limbs make the Fraser fir great for decorating with heavy ornaments. This evergreen thrives in moist but well-drained soil that is highly acidic and somewhat protected from drying winds. Fraser fir seedlings for sale from Chief River Nursery are of premium quality and are delivered ready to grow into stunning trees.
This evergreen prefers fertile, loamy, or sandy soils with a pH of 5.5-5.8, avoiding heavy or wet conditions. Fraser fir seedlings for sale develop dense branches when young, becoming more open as they mature. The soft, flattened needles measure about ¾ inch long, and the tree often grows alongside yellow birch, paper birch, and sugar maples. Due to their resilience and beauty, Fraser fir bare root trees are a favorite for Christmas tree production. Protection is recommended, as deer enjoy browsing its soft needles.
Fun Fact: The Fraser fir was named after Scottish botanist John Fraser (1750-1811), who explored the southern Appalachian Mountains in the late 18th century.
Christmas Tree Production: Grown commercially and for personal use due to its excellent needle retention and shape. You can buy our Fraser fir seedlings wholesale and start your very own Christmas tree farm.
Ornamental Tree: Planting bare root Fraser fir trees adds beauty to landscapes with its dense foliage and striking color.
Reforestation: Fraser fir saplings establish well in cooler climates and high elevations.
Like most conifers, the Fraser fir trees for sale at Chief River Nursery provide excellent habitat for many species of birds—offering a place for nesting, roosting, and general protection from winter weather. Red squirrels rely on the cones for seeds and often feed on the terminal buds. The soft needles of Fraser fir saplings are also a favorite browsing choice for deer, so protective measures may be necessary.
In South Jersey by Atlantic City we are zone 6B, but it seems like we do not have any Fraser firs growing. My soil is a mix of sand and clay. I'm curious if you would know how they would grow in this region.
Question by: Brent Grunow on Jan 3, 2021, 7:44 PM
Based on your planting zone it appears as if you could plant the Fraser fir variety, but it is important to do a soil pH test to see if the Fraser fir would be good in your pH. They are quite particular as to what type of soil, they prefer pH 5.5-5.8. They like cool, well drained soil not dry or sandy. I'm not sure if it would be the best choice. I would check to see if your state has a Christmas tree growers association, most states have them, they may be better able to answer that question to see if others have had success with that tree in your area.
Answer by: Chief River Nursery on Jan 7, 2021, 3:38 PM
What do you recommend for protection from root disease, which turns the tree red and kills it?
Question by: James gillette on Jul 21, 2021, 9:48 AM
I believe you are referring to Phytophthora root rot which is a common disease of Christmas trees including Douglas-fir, balsam and true firs (e.g., Fraser, balsam and Canaan), spruces, and pines. These organisms can survive for many years in soil and plant debris as thick-walled resting spores that can eventually germinate and directly infect trees. Alternatively during wet periods, certain of these resting spores can germinate to produce swimming spores that are attracted to the roots of Christmas trees and other host plants.
Choose sites with well-drained soils and avoid planting in low areas where water drains and pools. DO NOT plant Christmas trees in sites that may have had a history of Phytophthora root rot.
This is a difficult disease to deal with. We recommend you get a diagnostician to confirm if you have Phytophthora first before any treatment.
Answer by: Chief River Nursery on Aug 31, 2022, 1:52 PM
The Product information indicated the average annual growth once the seedling is established. How long does it take for the seedling to become established? Also at what age is the tree considered mature and should reach the height and width you indicate for a mature tree?
Question by: Martha Lane on Nov 23, 2021, 4:03 PM
During the planting year, you will observe limited top-growth, since bare-root plants will be sending energy into root development. The second year, you'll observe more top-growth, and by the time the third year rolls around, you should notice the stated 8-12" annually in optimum conditions. As with all living things, success and growth is variable, based upon soil, precipitation, temperature, keeping competitive vegetation removed. As an example, to reach 40', if the seedling grows 10" annually, it could take 48 years, give or take due to annual variables.
Answer by: Chief River Nursery on Nov 24, 2021, 1:13 PM
Would the Fraser fir do well inside for 4-6 months (living in South Jersey) and, if so, what size would you recommend as an inside starter?
Question by: Niki Marinaro on Nov 18, 2022, 9:59 PM
Hello,
We do not recommend planting the bareroot stock in pots. They should be planting in the ground outside. Thank you!
Answer by: Chief River Nursery on Nov 21, 2022, 8:33 AM
For zone 7 NorthCarolina foothills area clay mix soil is the Fraser fir best it appears a lot of the tree farms plant this variety
Question by: Drew roper on Nov 22, 2022, 12:47 PM
This evergreen does not tolerate heavy or wet soils, preferring fertile loamy and sandy soils instead. Soil pH levels in the range of 5.5-5.8 are ideal
Answer by: Chief River Nursery on Nov 22, 2022, 12:50 PM
