Shoot and Bud Development in Balsam Fir: Implications for Pruning of Christmas Trees

The processes of development of shoots and buds of balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.) and the positions of buds of different types and with differing degrees of development, are described as a basis for understanding what happens in response to pruning of portions of shoots (shearing) at different times of year. The greatest response in shoot and bud development will result from pruning in late July and early August. Degree of response will decrease with advancing time of pruning from August to October. Pruning from late March to early May will produce less, bud significant response in subsequent bud development but little in first-season shoot development. Pruning from November to March can be as effective as pruning in late March and early April, but risks of damage are greater. Pruning in the most active phase of shoot elongation (June to mid-July) is not advisable.