Posted by f m uitti on December 8, 2005

Q: Hello!

I wonder when I should plant a pine tree (2 meters high) on my slightly acidic soil in the Netherlands? Our winters are very moderate with almost no snow, but an occasional freeze... do I dare plant in December??

Also, I have the same question for planting adult conifers as a visual screen.

many thanks!

f m uitti

A: Although it is common practise to plant pines in the fall (they typically put out new roots then) I think you're too late to do so this year. Although your winters are moderate, I think if you wait until spring, your pine is much more likely to survive. Even though pines don't grow in the winter, they do lose moisture through their needles so if they can't replace it (they need plenty of roots to absorb water) they turn brown and die. Probably the best way to determine when to plant in the spring is to wait and watch other pines. As soon as you see any indication of pine growth, you know you can plant yours and they'll begin putting out new roots. Oh yes, if your soil in a bit on the acidic side, should be just fine. When you do plant, be sure to keep the tree ball moist but NOT wet. Most people overwater. Remember the tree will have lost much of its root mass in the transition so it can't absorb too much water.

Thanks for asking and good luck to you.

John Wiessinger ( December 8, 2005)