Branches used to make Christmas wreaths. Bark blisters contain oleoresin, used in the optics industry as a medium for mounting microscope specimens and as a cement for optics. Popular Christmas tree species Managed stands usually converted to other species because of their susceptibility to Spruce Budworm and their relatively low timber value. Seed production begins about age 20, or at 15', and regular seed production after about age 30. Some seed produced every year, with heavy seed crops at 2-4 year intervals.
Most seeds shed in autumn, but small amounts fall throughout the winter and into spring.
Dispersal of the winged seeds primarily by wind. Most fall within 80'-200' of the tree, but some travel over 500'. Some dispersal by small mammals. Only about half of the seeds are sound and even these remain viable for less than a year under natural conditions. Seeds germinate between late May and early July .