snake fir

Snake fir should be watered moderately, but frequently—once or twice a week depending on the season and temperature. In the summer months, or when temperatures are warmer than 60 degrees Fahrenheit, water the soil around the tree thoroughly to a depth of 2 to 3 inches. In cooler temperatures, water just enough to keep the soil slightly damp. Keeping a layer of mulch around the tree helps the soil retain moisture. Using a soil moisture meter can help determine if a Snake fir needs water.

Snake fir is native to the mountainous and subalpine regions of Europe and needs to receive bright, indirect light, similar to its natural habitat. Place your snake fir near an east or south facing window; too much direct sunlight from a west or south window risks sunburn, which is evidenced by yellowing of the needles. Though part shade or filtered sunlight is preferred, the snake fir needs several hours of direct sunlight in order to thrives. It is recommended to expose your snake fir to direct sunlight for about 4 to 6 hours a day. In the winter, you should increase the light exposure of your snake fir, exposing it to the brightest light you can provide for at least 4 hours a day.

Snake Fir should be pruned in early spring before new growth emerges. Remove all dead, diseased, or crossing branches and decayed foliage. Avoid pruning healthy growth as this will remove future foliage and potential flowers or cones. Prune 1 to 3 main leaders, making sure to maintain an even, layered overall shape. Trim back the outermost branches to maintain a neat overall appearance. Prune out crowded branches with no space between them and remove any weak shoots. Limit pruning back of side shoots to no more than 1-third of their current length and try to leave a stub. Shorten new growth to an inconspicuous point lower on an older branch and avoid shearing back into previous pruning scar.