Case Details
Stunted growth on white pine
Submitted by Terri Lessig on 5/1/2012
Gentleman planted about 150 white pine. They are about 4 years old. About a dozen of the trees have what I would describe as stunted growth on the branch ends. The needles from last years' growth range from 1" long on the ends of the lateral branches to 2" on the ends of the central leader. There appears to be new growth beginning for this year. All of the needles older than last year's growth have fallen off. I see no evidence of insect or disease. I requested that he dig up a plant or two to look at the roots and trunk for signs of damage or root rot. I am leaning towards some type of stress that prevented good plant growth. The 12 trees are kind of in the same area, but not right next to each other.
Reply by Laura Jull on 5/1/2012
Terri,
White pine only retains its needles for 2 years, then sheds the 3-year old needles. Most pines retain their older needles for 4 years, sometimes longer on western pine species. Some questions I have is what is the soil type (clay, sandy, loam), what is the pH? Is water applied during drought and at time of planting. It takes even these small seedlings at least a year or two to establish in the soil. Are the trees planted near a road with road salt applications? White pine often looks stunted for the first couple of years after transplanting, regardless of size.
Reply by Terri Lessig on 5/3/2012
Location is northern Wood county so heavier soil. Generally, the pH in this area is slightly acidic to very acidic in the bog areas. I could recommend he do a soil test to be sure. Trees are not near the road. I'll check on watering situation. His main questions is if he replaces these trees with new ones, are they going to have the same issues. I wanted to rule out insect or disease problems.
