Oregon Green Austrian Pine

1. Planting: Oregon Green Austrian Pines will tolerate any type of soil, as long as it is well-draining. Be sure that the planting location receives full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct sun each day.

When planting, dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Keep the tree straight and tamp the soil down as you fill the hole to prevent any air pockets from forming. Water the planting site when finished to settle the soil, and mulch around the roots to keep grass and weeds at bay.

2. Watering: Water your Oregon Green deeply and regularly during the first few growing seasons to establish an extensive root system. Once established, reduce the frequency. This pine tolerates occasional, moderate drought.

3. Pruning: You can allow your Oregon Green to grow naturally with no pruning needed. To make the tree more compact, break off the spires in half during the spring when the tree is young. With this method, the tree is encouraged to develop more branching and provide shorter shoots. Never cut the branches below the needles or the pine will not re-sprout.

4. Fertilizing: Feed with a general-purpose, well-balanced fertilizer before new growth emerges in spring.