Trees - White Pine
Back to Trees

  Our family has used a living tree for the past couple of years. One of them died this past summer. I assume it was from the extreme summer we had. Once again this year we are using a live tree. What recommendations do you have for planting it outdoors? We only leave it inside for a week, and then move it out. It is a white pine tree.

  White pines are better suited for the northern part of Arkansas than the rest of the state. Make sure that you give the tree a transition period in a garage or carport before planting it outdoors. Usually three to five days is best. Choose your site well, you need a well drained location, preferably in morning sun and afternoon shade. Plant it at the height it is currently growing and water at planting, and periodically throughout the winter if it is dry. The first year after planting is critical, make sure you water weekly throughout the summer if it is dry.

  Enclosed is a small limb cut from a Japanese White Pine. As you can see, there is a white substance where many of the needles come out on the limb. Within the past few weeks, this white substance has appeared all around the trunk and in several places on the tree. I have another of these trees and it is just now beginning to show up on it. These trees were planted in April. Can you tell me what the problem is and how to treat it?

  The problem is the pine bark aphid. The insects usually work on the undersides of the limbs and on the trunk from the ground up. They are identified by the white cottony material that collects in patches wherever they are present. Use a horticultural or refined oil spray now and spray as much of the trees as you can. This should control the problem.

Back to Trees