Nordmann fir - Seeds

Abies nordmanniana, valued for its elegant form and cold resistance, is an evergreen tree from the Pinaceae family, native to the Caucasus Mountains and nearby Black Sea regions. In its natural habitat, it can reach up to 60 meters in height, although in ornamental cultivation it typically stays much smaller. It grows slowly at first, then steadily over time.

The tree features a straight trunk with gray bark that becomes scaly with age. The needles are dark green and glossy on top, with two white stripes on the underside, arranged densely and horizontally, giving the tree a perfectly symmetrical appearance. The cones are upright, cylindrical (10–20 cm), and disintegrate into scales when mature.

This fir is a popular choice as a natural Christmas tree, thanks to its dense foliage, classic pyramidal shape, and ability to retain its needles for weeks indoors. It is highly frost-tolerant and thrives in cool, moist mountain climates with deep, fertile, and well-drained soils.

Seed germination

Abies nordmanniana seeds require cold stratification to germinate. First, soak the seeds for 24 hours, then place them in moist stratification at 3–5 °C for 6 to 8 weeks (e.g., in the fridge, inside a bag with moist vermiculite). After this period, sow the seeds in a light, well-draining substrate and keep it lightly moist in a cool environment. Germination can be slow and uneven, but success is high when the process is followed carefully.