How Big Is The Root System?

Question

How tall can a Fir tree grow and continue to be safe from falling over?

Answer 1

This is cultivar specific, unfortunately. The answer is quite broad when speaking of Fir trees, in general.

They can range from 2 feet tall, to over 200 feet tall. Most will not fall over, unless planted too shallow.

The root system will expand according to tree height, so this will also be very specific to the particular cultivar that you choose.

This collection of articles will provide you with information on some of the more common Fir trees: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/category/ornamental/trees/fir

Answer 2

Factors that influence the toppling of a tree are shallow soils, high winds and water-saturated soil. Firs are obviously more susceptible to winter winds than deciduous trees but I don't believe there is a "max" safe size. Windthrow is the process of a tree whipping backward and forward in a storm until it finally falls. The taller the tree, the stronger is a windthrow effect. The following article has details on why/which trees fall while it is still very readable: https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/guest-blog/why-do-trees-topple-in-a-storm/

Answer 3

Factors that influence the toppling of a tree are shallow soils, high winds and water-saturated soil. Firs are obviously more susceptible to winter winds than deciduous trees but I don't believe there is a "max" safe size. Windthrow is the process of a tree whipping backward and forward in a storm until it finally falls. The taller the tree, the stronger is a windthrow effect. The following article has details on why/which trees fall while it is still very readable: https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/guest-blog/why-do-trees-topple-in-a-storm/