Species jack pine
scraggly tree with gray stem and green foliage

jack pine

Pinus banksiana 'Uncle Fogy'

Jack Pine, also known as Pinus banksiana 'Uncle Fogy', is a hearty conifer that can be found in Northern and Central United States and Canada. It is a hardy evergreen with deep green needles and bark with wide ridges. The Jack Pine is tolerant of acidic or dry soils and prefers direct light. Its branches are clustered in a manner that makes it a striking addition to any landscape. The Jack Pine is well known for its distinct cone, which is fairly thin and tends to remain closed until the tree is exposed to extreme heat, such as a forest fire. Its cones then open and release its renowned seeds, making it an important re-foresting species. This reliable tree is also a dependable source of lumber, poles, and fuel.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Seed Propagation,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 7

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Cones:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Jack pine (Pinus banksiana 'Uncle Fogy') should be watered 1-2 times per week. Ensure that the soil does not dry out completely between waterings. The soil should remain moist, but not soggy. The amount of water required depends on the size of the tree and the climate, but it is generally a good idea to water the soil until moisture is seen draining from the bottom of the pot. Additionally, it is helpful to mist the foliage of the tree once or twice a week to provide extra humidity.

sunlight

Jack pine (Pinus banksiana 'Uncle Fogy') requires 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. During the spring, summer, and fall, Jack pines should be exposed to sunlight for either the entire day or part of a day, with at least 6 hours of continuous sunlight per day. In winter months, 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight is recommended. During the short days of winter, it is especially important that Jack pine is exposed to direct sunlight to prevent slow or stunted growth.

pruning

Jack pine (Pinus banksiana 'Uncle Fogy') should be pruned during late winter or early spring when the tree is still dormant. Pruning should focus on removing any dead, diseased, crossing or broken branches. If the tree is to be used for timber purposes, then careful thinning is recommended to increase light and air circulation and reduce wind resistance. Always prune with sharp, clean pruning tools, and never leave stubs or jagged edges on the cut. This species should not be pruned severely or heavy topped, as this can damage or kill the tree.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Jack pine typically starts flowering in May.

Hardiness Map