How to Plant White Pine Trees

White pine trees are evergreen conifers that can make an excellent addition to your landscape. They grow rapidly and can reach heights of up to 100 feet, making them a great option for a tall privacy screen or windbreak. If you're interested in planting white pine trees, here's what you need to know.

Choose the Right Location

The first step in planting white pine trees is to select the ideal location. White pines prefer well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. The soil should be acidic with a pH level of 4.5 to 6.5, and the site should be protected from strong winds. Avoid planting white pines in low-lying areas where water tends to pool.

Prepare the Site

Once you've selected the location for your white pine trees, it's time to prepare the site. Start by removing any grass or weeds from the planting area. Then, dig a hole that's twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Gently loosen the roots of the tree, and place it in the hole so that the root crown is level with the soil.

Add Nutrients

To encourage healthy growth, you should add some nutrients to the soil around your white pine trees. Apply a layer of compost or well-rotted manure around the base of the tree, and work it into the soil. You can also add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil to help the tree establish itself.

Mulch the Trees

After you've added nutrients to the soil, it's time to mulch your white pine trees. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, making sure it does not touch the trunk. The mulch will help the soil retain moisture and regulate the soil temperature, which will benefit the tree.

Water Regularly

White pine trees need to be watered regularly to establish themselves. Water the trees deeply once a week, providing enough water to soak the soil to a depth of at least six inches. During periods of drought, you may need to water the trees more often.

Prune as Needed

To encourage healthy growth and shape your white pine trees, you should prune them as needed. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and thin out any crowded areas to maintain the tree's shape. Avoid removing more than one-third of the tree's branches in a single year, as this can weaken the tree.

Conclusion

Planting white pine trees is a great way to add some evergreen beauty to your landscape. By selecting the right location, preparing the site, adding nutrients, mulching, watering regularly, and pruning as needed, you can help your white pine trees thrive for years to come.