Sunlight

• In nature, cedar and fir seeds are carried by birds, small animals, water and wind. If the seed is distributed on soil that provides moisture and nutrients, the seed will sprout and begin to grow. In the forest, fir tree seeds that fall close to a giant cedar tree may sprout, but their growth and potential size at maturity will be stunted if the cedar tree blocks sunlight the fir trees need to grow to their full size. The same process will manifest if a cedar seedling attempts to grow in close proximity to a fir or other shading or sheltering forest vegetation. When planting cedars or fir trees, establish them in a permanent location where they will not compete with each other for light as they grow and mature.
  
  

Soil

• To grow their best, cedar and fir trees require adequate moisture and nutrient-rich soil. When planting new trees, avoid soil with heavy clays or coarse soils. Avoid planting trees in areas prone to flooding. Prior to planting your trees, take a soil sample to your local county extension office to have the soil tested for nutrient content, pH, soil content and soil compaction. Amend the soil prior to planting if the test indicates the soil is incompatible with the type of tree you wish to establish. Soils with a pH greater than 8.0 make it extremely difficult cultivate a quality tree. It is difficult for any type of evergreen to grow if it is competing with other trees and vegetation for nutrients.
  
  

Spacing

• When planting cedars, fir trees or any other evergreen or deciduous tree, consider the size of the root mass and tree canopy at maturity. The majority of trees present roots that are as deep and wide as the height and width of the canopy. Evergreens planted too close together cannot develop strong and deep root masses. Without strong roots, the tree is unstable and subject to damage or death during flooding or strong winds.
  
  

Cedar Tree Description

• Cedar (Cedrus deodara) is a stately, hardy evergreen tree that grows well in USDA plant hardiness zones 7 to 9 and reaches a height of up to 70 feet at maturity. The tree has a pyramidal shape with a broad canopy at maturity. The thick foliage provides dense shade and deep green coloration all year long.
  
  

Fir Tree Description

• There are many different species of fir trees, including Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca), noble fir (Abies procera), balsam fir (Abies balsamea) and concolor or white fir (Abies concolor), that are widely used in both rural and urban landscaping. Fir trees grow in zones 3 through 9. The tallest of fir tree species, noble fir grows over a 100 feet tall at maturity. Fir trees grow best in full sun.