Habitat:
The Douglas-fir grows best on neutral or slightly acid, well-drained, moist,
deep, loamy soils. It requires full sun, plenty of free air movement and
good soil moisture. High winds and heavy, wet snows may be damaging, and
poor, dry soils will adversely affect growth. Growth is initially slow,
becoming moderate. There are two varieties of this species. The variety
native to the Rocky Mountains (P.menziesii var glauca) and
has smaller cones (2 to 3 inches long) with reflexed bracts. The Pacific
Coast variety requires atmospheric moisture, has larger cones, straight
bracts and dark green foliage. The Rocky Mountain variety, more tolerant
of cold and drought, is planted in the Midwest.
Diseases: This species is usually free of pests and diseases, but Swiss needlecast, Douglas-fir bark beetle and cankers can be problematic.
Distribution: The Douglas-fir is native to the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Coast (from British Columbia to Mexico).
