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Tips for Healthy Pine Trees in Your Yard

You know how to care for that Christmas tree you just bought, but what about caring for the pine trees in your yard? Imagine those trees looking as stunning as the one taking up temporary residence in your living room!

By following these tips for healthy pine trees, the trees in your yard can be holiday-season vibrant and healthy all year long.

Planting

If you are planting new pine trees, consider that a group of these softwood evergreens makes excellent wind barriers or natural fences when incorporated into your landscaping. Since pines do not go dormant, the best time of year to plant one is the fall or spring. So if Santa brings you a pine tree, you will have to hold off on planting it in soil for a few months!

Fertilizing

That spruce or festive fir in your yard is refreshingly low-maintenance compared to other trees and shrubs. But it will still require some fertilizer to promote root growth and provide the nutrition needed for optimal health.

Fertilize your pine tree if needles become discolored or are unusually short. Using an all-purpose fertilizer, like a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer, is best, as these contain equal parts of the three main ingredients in garden fertilizer. Fertilize an established tree if new growth is slow. A new pine tree will not grow by leaps and bounds, but will appreciate some tender fertilizing care as well!

Pruning

Evergreens typically require very little pruning. Removing dead or diseased branches can prevent infections from spreading, but excessive pruning can actually be damaging to the tree. Overall, the occasional light trimming should be enough to accentuate the beauty of the pine tree’s natural shape.

Watering

Everyone knows how important it is to water their Christmas tree every day. But the pines in your yard can get thirsty too! Most pine trees can be watered in the winter if the ground is not frozen and a week has gone by without precipitation. In the summer, water pines twice a week if the soil seems dry. For new pine trees, water as often as necessary to keep the soil moist, but not wet, at all times.

Mulching

When the holidays are over, recycle your Christmas tree by having it ground and using the mulch for your pine trees! Mulching keeps trees healthy by helping soil retain necessary moisture. Mulch also breaks down and becomes organic feeding material, providing nutrients that root systems need. If grinding your Christmas tree is not an option, remember that any mulch is better than no mulch! Opt for three to six inches of wood chips, rustic pine straw, or even dry leaves.

Following a few simple tips will leave you with a pine tree that is so impressive, Saint Nick may get confused and leave all the presents under it next year! For more advice on planting pine trees and general care, contact our experts.