Brown/orange Branches On Bristlecone Pine

Question

We have a bristlecone pine that was planted in the spring of 2022. This spring (2023) it had good overall growth throughout the plant – short as typical. A few weeks ago I noticed some of the lower branches were orange in color like they were dead. For the 3-4 foot tree there are 10-12 branches like this. I will send pictures under separate note. Hope that isn’t a problem for you to connect the two messages

Answer 1

I suspect it is not getting enough water. These trees are drought tolerant but not until they are well established which can take a year in the case of a tree. Or perhaps it has been dry there this summer. I can't tell from the photo, but is it in full sun? That is important, too. You said the soil was well draining, which is a must. These articles should help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/pine/pine-tree-drying-bottom.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/pine/bristlecone-pine-information.htm

You don't need to fertilize the first year. This article tells more:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/pine/caring-for-pine-trees.htm