What Happens When a Douglas Fir Tree's Branches Spread & Droop?

Natural Shape

• Douglas fir trees have naturally spreading branches that droop downwards. This downward droop increases as the tree grows. Their soft needles and spreading branches make them ideal for handling and hanging ornaments during the Christmas season. Tree farms often trim and shape their Douglas fir trees, which can restrict the natural spreading shape. Therefore, when Douglas fir trees are seen in their untrimmed state, some might believe they are diseased or dying, but this is not the case.

Wooded Environments

• When Douglas fir trees grow in open spaces, they retain branches along the entire length of their trunk, as sunlight is able to reach even the lowest branches. However, when a trees grows in a woodland environment where the sunlight cannot reach the lower branche, the tree will shed those low branches. Instead, the tree concentrates its energy on creating a thick canopy. The tree's lower branches droop, lose their needles and become brittle due to the lack of sunlight and nutrients. Therefore it may appear that the tree is dying, but it is not.

Injuries

• Douglas firs are adapted to temperate seasonal environments, but especially cold winters can cause damage even to well-adapted plants. Like most evergreen trees, Douglas fir's have weaker limbs than hardwood trees. Douglas firs also retain their needles, while deciduous trees do not. During heavy snowfalls or ice storms, weight can accumulate on the tree's needles and branches, putting additional strain on the soft branches. These branches are highly susceptible to drooping and breaking during these events.

Christmas Trees

• When Douglas fir trees are set up as Christmas trees in the home, they require daily watering in order to keep them fresh and fragrant. If a tree is not adequately watered, it develops drooping branches and dropping needles due to dehydration. Eventually the branches become brittle and can cause a fire hazard. Brittle branches also make it harder to remove the tree after the holidays. Keeping the tree watered will prevent drooping branches and dropping needles and keep the tree alive longer.