How Fast Does Larch Grow?

Climatic Requirements

• The European larch occurs naturally in the temperate, high altitude forests of western Europe where temperatures stay cool year-round. They cannot tolerate excess heat or dry conditions, and are unsuitable for cultivation in areas where summers are long and droughts are common. However, they are moderately tolerant of air pollution and strong wind, and will survive in urban conditions with minimal damage.

Growing Conditions

• The single greatest factor impacting the growth and development of European larch trees is the planting site. They are not highly adaptable and must be provided with consistently moist, highly acidic soil to establish a mature root system readily. While it is possible to grow larch trees in saturated soil that never dries out, it is not ideal and may cause the roots to drown. Full sun encourages healthy vertical growth, but it is best to provide some light shade at midday if growing them in warmer areas. No matter what, avoid sunny sites with dry soil, because the tree will not grow reliably and may fail entirely before reaching maturity.

Care

• European larch trees are fussy when it comes to their planting site and climate tolerance, but they are fairly low maintenance once established. Provide deep weekly watering during their first summer in the ground to aid in the production of a healthy root system. Increase watering to two or three times weekly during periods of extreme heat, and provide water during their second summer as well, if growing them at the higher end of their USDA hardiness zone range. Yearly feeding just before growth begins in spring will allow the tree to grow at its natural rate despite nutritionally poor soil, but it is not absolutely necessary after the first few years. Additionally, pruning will preserve the tree's conical shape, but it must be done in midsummer so the new growth has time to harden off before the first frost.

Considerations

• Before planting a European larch tree, several aspects of their growth must be considered. With a mature height of 65 to 70 feet and a crown width of 30 feet, European larch trees are as imposing as they are dramatic. They require a very large growing site, because smaller sites may restrict their growth. Due to their moderately invasive roots and weak branches, European larch trees must be planted at least 25 to 30 feet away from structures to prevent property damage. Additionally, diseases, such as root rot and rust, may be an issue in some trees, but they are avoided easily by choosing an appropriate planting site and providing adequate care.