red pine

Red pines should be kept consistently moist. Water the plant until the top 2 to 3 inches of soil begins to feel dry. Water your red pine every 7-10 days during the summer months and every 10-14 days during the winter. Reduce watering in the fall before the cold temperatures arrive. During the dormant season in winter, keep the soil lightly moist and water the red pine sparingly.

Red pine (Pinus resinosa) is a native species in the Northeastern and North Central United States and Canada. It grows best in full sunlight, meaning 6 or more hours of direct sunlight daily. It is a good choice for gardeners in Northern and Midwestern areas, where the amount of sunlight is commonly 6 or more hours per day. While the tree will still grow in partial shade (3 to 6 hours of direct sun per day) it will not reach its full size potential. During the growing season, red pine can handle temperatures as low as -25°F, but prefers an average daily temperature between 64°F and 68°F. In summer, the tree can tolerate temperatures up to and above 100°F. In cold areas, the tree prefers to be located in the warmest places available. Spring is the time when red pine will experience most of its growth, with the tree reaching it’s maximum size potential within the first few years of its life.

Red pine should be pruned in the winter or late fall, as this is the most effective time for pruning pines. Pruning should be focused on selective removal of dead, damaged, or competing branches, as well as reducing excess foliage. Branches should be cut close to the main trunk without leaving a stub, as this can lead to disease or insect infestation. When pruning larger branches, the wound should be sealed with a sealant or varnish to avoid disease. Pruning should be done periodically during the first 2 or 3 years of the tree’s life in order to establish the dominant branches that will grow in the desired direction. After 3 years, only occasional pruning is necessary.