Telling the difference amongconiferscan be tricksy . To me , they are allChristmas tree . But calling them such does n’t really mark me as a discerninggardener . There is , however , a flying way to recite these three coarse conifer apart .

Learn more : How to Prune Firs , Douglas Firs , and spruce

Look for the identification number of phonograph needle that make out out of the same fleck on a twig . If a sprig bears needles in groups of two , three , or five , you’re able to safely call it apine . If the branchlet carries its needles singly , it ’s a sound bet you ’ve drive a fir or a spruce . Pull off a needle , and roll it between your fingers . If it feel plane and does n’t roll easy , it ’s afir . If the needle has four sides and , thus , rolls easy between your fingers , it ’s aspruce .

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Photos : Michelle Gervais

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