Spruce cones are female
The spruce is monoecious, with male and female flowers on the same tree. Female flowers are only found in the top third of the crown. Initially red and erect, after fertilisation they develop into cones which hang down as they ripen. They remain on the tree until February, when they open and the winged seeds began to fall. Only empty cones fall from the tree.
Needles with UV protection
Spruce needles have a lifespan of 5 to 7 years. Young shoots are bright green. As they grow, they become grey-green and harder and develop pointed tips. Their bluish shade comes from a slightly waxy surface that protects the tree against UV light and dehydration. Since this surface can be damaged by human touch, the tree should only be admired from a distance and visitors should avoid touching the needles.
Log pull
Originally a form of mockery and an admonition to the unmarried young women of the village, the ancient carnival custom of the log pull still survives in Podhom. The young men of the village go into the forest and cut down a spruce tree. They strip it of its branches and bark but leave its bushy top, which they decorate with ribbons. They then pull the log through the village on a cart as part of the carnival procession and seek out unmarried young women, who have to kiss the top of the tree as a form of punishment. Once the log has completed the circuit of the village, everyone sits down together for a feast.