Mount Asama Foothills - Takahashi Botanical Garden Coverage Report: Rooted Fir Trees and the Story Woven by Soil and People

Soil and Climate Born at the Foot of the Volcano

Walking through the fields spread across the northern foot of Mount Asama, one is surprised by the black, light soil. The topsoil in this region is kuroboku soil, formed by thick layers of volcanic ash, and was long known locally as "nobodo," a synonym for barren land. However, after World War II, it was discovered that volcanic ash soil tends to trap organic matter, making it difficult for plants to absorb nutrients. Development then progressed with advances in chemical fertilizers and drainage improvement.

Kuroboku soil was re-evaluated and found to be suitable for root vegetables, as it contains few coarse stones, has fine particles allowing roots to grow easily, and possesses adequate water retention and abundant humus. Thanks to these improvements, the northern foothills are now a major production area for dairy cows, potatoes, and cabbage.

The pumice mixed in this black soil is also a gift from the volcano. Pumice is a rock formed when gas escapes from viscous magma, bubbling up and then rapidly cooling. It is so lightweight that it floats on water due to its porous nature.

At Mount Asama, gray and black pumice and scoria accumulate, and in Takahashi Botanical Garden's fir tree fields, there are many light particles that crumble when you grasp them.

Thanks to this porous pumice, the soil drains well, and combined with the plateau's windy climate, root rot is less likely. This is an ideal environment for fir trees, which are cold-hardy and prefer moisture. Mr. Takahashi, the owner of Takahashi Botanical Garden, laughed and said, "The soil is thanks to the volcano and the efforts of our ancestors."

Florist and Gardener Perspectives from the Field

Takahashi Botanical Garden, which has been cultivating saplings at the foot of Mount Asama for decades, is a production farm, so sudden visits are not possible. However, as stated on their official website, they ship a wide range of tree sizes, from tens of centimeters to several meters, nationwide.

Collecting seeds is still a manual process involving the whole family, with an 89-year-old grandmother cracking the shells and children helping out.

Mr. Takahashi, the owner, spoke happily about how each tree, cultivated with time and effort, is used.

His conversation was particularly impressive when asked about the difference in perspective between a florist and a gardener.

Florists emphasize display appeal in stores and the completeness of the tree, preferring individuals with dense foliage and a well-formed shape.

Gardeners, on the other hand, value the "sense of space" when placed in a garden, choosing trees with gaps in the branches and leaves that allow light and wind to pass through.

Mr. Takahashi narrowed his eyes and said, "It's interesting how different people see the same plant differently depending on how they use it," noting that even the same fir tree is desired in different forms depending on where it is displayed and its role.

The Value and Potential of Fir Trees

As we walked and talked, I stopped in front of a large, 10-meter-tall tree. The tree had lost its leaves at the top and was unsellable, and he explained how they would dispose of it and return it to the soil.

Indeed, with the top leaves gone, its market value as a fir tree might be low. However, the lower leaves were fresh and firm, and impressive enough to be used as decoration as they were.

Could this be used for decorations or events? When I suggested such a reuse, the farmer was delighted, saying, "I rarely hear from customers, so it's good to know it has such value."

Perhaps hints for conveying the charm of forest assets can emerge from conversations like these.

The Vitality and Scent Felt by Touching a Fir Tree

The fir trees cultivated at Takahashi Botanical Garden are the Japanese native species Uragami Fir (Abies homolepis). The underside of its leaves shines silver, and its soft needles are gentle to the touch. This tree grows slowly, about 30 cm per year, and it takes approximately 3-4 years before it can be sold.

Gazing at the three-year-old fir trees spread across the field, I couldn't help but feel the jewel-like beauty of these trees, embodying three years of time in the mountains of Gunma.

While relatively resistant to air pollution among fir species, it prefers slightly acidic, moist soil and dislikes dryness. In fact, the owner mentioned that he regularly waters them even in summer to prevent them from drying out.

While relatively resistant to air pollution among fir species, it prefers slightly acidic, moist soil and dislikes dryness.

Key Growing Tips

• Watering: For rooted fir trees, dryness is the enemy. Especially for potted plants, water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot once the surface of the soil dries. For planted trees, watering is necessary immediately after planting and during prolonged dry summers. Be careful not to let the root ball dry out.

• Location: Fir trees prefer sunny and well-ventilated locations, but avoid strong afternoon sun. They prefer cool climates, so a semi-shaded spot is ideal during summer. If enjoying indoors, place them in a bright, cool spot away from direct heater drafts.

• Soil: Fir trees prefer well-draining and moisture-retentive, slightly acidic soil. The "Growing Kit" includes specialized soil.

• Fertilizer: Generally, not much is needed, but a small amount of slow-release fertilizer during the growing season (spring) is beneficial.

• Pruning: It's common to enjoy their natural shape, but if you want to shape them, light pruning can be done in winter. However, strong pruning can weaken the tree, so be careful. In particular, cutting the apical bud can make it difficult to achieve a beautiful conical shape.

On the day of the interview, I gently touched a young tree about 1 meter tall. Pressing my finger into the still-soft bark, it felt moist and elastic, and a faint, refreshing scent of pine resin wafted from the needle tips. The underside of the needles was silvery-white, reflecting sunlight with a shimmer like fine scales.

Mr. Takahashi, the owner, advised that when actually cultivating them, they should be planted in a garden as slow-growing trees, watered daily to prevent the root ball from drying out, and nurtured over a long period in a well-ventilated spot.

Popularity of Domestic Trees and the "Growing Kit"

In recent years, there has been growing interest in domestic Christmas trees. This is due to imported Oregon Firs becoming difficult to obtain because of regulations and price hikes, and because rooted domestic trees can be transplanted into gardens after Christmas.

Takahashi Botanical Garden's blog reported that the year after being featured on a TV program, over 300 units for internet sales sold out, and sales ended mid-season.

On the day of the interview, I realized their popularity when I heard, "This year's supply was fully booked by August."

&YOUKAEN also offers a product called "Domestic Fir Tree Growing Kit" with the desire for people to experience the joy of growing fir trees.

Introducing "Perfect for Christmas Trees! Domestic Fir Tree Approx. 90cm Growing Kit for Direct Transplant"

&YOUKAEN has prepared the "Perfect for Christmas Trees! Domestic Fir Tree Approx. 90cm Growing Kit for Direct Transplant" with the hope that everyone can easily experience the joy of growing a fir tree.

About the Product 

We deliver fresh domestic fir trees, rooted (balled and burlapped), directly to you. These high-quality fir trees are grown at Takahashi Botanical Garden in Azuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture, which boasts volcanic ash soil from Mount Asama and well-draining pumice-rich soil. &YOUKAEN's director personally selects each tree, considering its shape and balance. When displayed in your room, a gentle, forest-like fragrance will fill the air, bringing an authentic Nordic Christmas atmosphere into your daily life. The scientific name for fir tree, "Abies," means "eternal life," making it not only a Christmas tree but also a recommended gift for housewarmings, weddings, or births, embodying wishes for the future. *Images are for illustration purposes only. Please note that the actual product delivered may differ.

After Christmas, it becomes a symbolic tree.

After Christmas, you can transplant it into your garden or a larger pot to grow it as a "symbolic tree." It will become a long-term companion, watching over your family's growth.

Product Set Contents

• Domestic Natural Fir Tree (balled and burlapped / approx. 90cm tall)

• Pot

• Soil (specialized soil)

• Leaflet on transplanting instructions

Product Specifications

• Gunma Prefecture Natural Fir Tree (Urajiro Momi)

• The fir tree will be delivered balled and burlapped, with its roots and soil wrapped in burlap.

• By watering generously every day, you can maintain its fresh condition for about one month.

• A leaflet with transplanting instructions is included, so even beginners can confidently transplant the tree.

Precautions

• *Due to the nature of natural wood, it cannot be grown long-term in a balled and burlapped state. After enjoying it, please plant it in the ground or transplant it into a pot.

• *As it is a natural tree, leaves may fall.

• *As the tree grew in nature, small insects or debris may rarely be present.

• *Ornaments are not included.

Would you like to grow a special fir tree, lovingly cultivated by Mr. Takahashi at the foot of Mount Asama, in your own home?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can fir trees be planted in a garden? What are the注意事项?

A: Yes, Uragami fir is suitable for garden planting. Choose a well-drained, sunny location, and water thoroughly immediately after planting to prevent drying. Growth is relatively slow, but it will eventually become large, so consider the space available.

Q: What are the tips for growing a fir tree in a pot?

A: Be careful not to let it dry out; water thoroughly when the soil surface becomes dry. In summer, it is best to move it to a cool, semi-shaded location. To prevent root-bound conditions, it is recommended to repot it into a slightly larger pot every few years. Please also refer to the leaflet included with the "Growing Kit."

Q: What should I do with the fir tree after Christmas?

A: Rooted fir trees can continue to be grown after Christmas. After enjoying it indoors, gradually acclimate it to the outdoors, then plant it in the garden or transplant it into a larger pot. You can enjoy it as a symbol tree.

Q: What types of fir trees are there? What are the characteristics of Uragami fir?

A: There are various types of fir trees, but common ones used as Christmas trees include Uragami fir, Momi fir, Norway spruce, and Oregon fir. Uragami fir is a native Japanese species characterized by its white undersides of the leaves and is considered relatively easy to grow. The fir tree in this "Growing Kit" is also Uragami fir.

Q: Are there any trees similar to fir trees?

A: Spruce (such as Norway spruce) and hemlock are similar. They can be distinguished by the arrangement of their leaves and the shape of their cones.

Please note that additional charges apply for shipping to Hokkaido, and delivery to Okinawa and remote islands is not possible.

The Story of Soil and People, Conclusion

The black soil and pumice left by the volcano, the windy plateau climate, and the efforts of generations of farmers.

These three elements nurture fir trees at the foot of Mount Asama. Kuroboku soil, once called "useless," was re-evaluated after post-war improvements and found to be suitable for root vegetables and fodder. The gaps in the pumice support roots and improve drainage, aiding the growth of fir trees.

Behind every tree lies a story woven from the natural cycle and careful cultivation by human hands. Knowing this story, we hope the tree you display feels even more cherished. Enjoy a wonderful Christmas season with the authentic scent of a fir tree.