I have a Norfolk Island Pine that is badly stressed and is dropping leaves and branches. We got it for Christmas last year, and it was doing all right just dropping a few bottom fronds until a couple of months ago. Now it has lost probably 20% of its foliage, which comes off brittle and dry. When the problem first started happening, I tried watering it and feeding it some worm tea and fish emulsion, but the process only seems to have accelerated. What am I doing wrong? I am using the water we use for our outdoor fish pond, because I have read that chlorinated water is unhealthy for it. Are the chemicals I use to dechlorinate the water unhealthy? Do I need to mist it? The soil seems slightly damp but not wet a quarter inch down. How can I save it? This is an indoor plant.
Norfolk Island Pines are a tropical plant and need humid conditions to do well indoors.
I would recommend watering with either distilled water or tap water can be set out for 24 hours before using.
Water the plant only with the top inch or so are dry. Check the soil, don't water on a schedule.
Here are links to refresh you on the care requirements.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-island-pine-care.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-dropping-branches.htm
I have four 50-foot Norfolk Island pine trees. I live in central FL. Can I cut off about 15 foot of the trees? There are four in a group. I'm afraid of wind damage to my home if they snap off.
There is conflicting information on topping an outdoor Norfolk Island Pine Tree.
You will likely correct the situation for a time, but most times the tree will began to grow new leaders.
In some cases a new leader will not grow and you may be left with a tree with a less then appealing appearance.
The tree is big, at least 20 m high. It is in our garden and we are worried about it falling if it is sick. The tree suffered a lot of damage in the cyclone we lived through this time last year (We are in Rockhampton, Queensland). It lost quite a few branches and my husband thinks it used to be straight - it now has a slight lean. The lower branches have been dying and we have been cutting them off. It also has a large round 'knot' on its trunk. What we need to know is: is it dangerous? Should we get it removed? It would be catastrophic if it fell. Many thanks in anticipation of your help. I can take a photo and send it to you.
I would have a certified Arborist inspect the tree to determine if the leaning tree is safe or if it should be removed.
What kind of soil and/or potting mix should I use when repotting a small Norfolk Pine?
Use a good quality potting soil that is well draining.
Make sure the plant actually needs repotting, before going to the trouble.
They prefer to be root bound and actually can go 2 to 4 years before repotting.
If you see roots on the top soil surface or growing out of the drainage holes, this indicates the need to repot.
Make sure you only increase the pot size by 2". If it is in an 8" pot, choose a 10" pot.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-island-pine-care.htm
Is there any way to trim a Norfolk Island Pine? I have a beautiful plant. It gets plenty of light and is growing well - probably 3 inches since just before Xmas. It is in my sun room on the west with big windows. It gets too cold here in the winter to put it outside and I'd hate to have it outgrow my space? Any way to limit it growth? Thank you! Shirley
No, there is not a way to control the growth of your plant.
Here is a link with care information.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-island-pine-care.htm
Should I transplant my tree to a bigger container and what kind of dirt should I put, and also what kind of fertilizer should I use? Thank You Richarx
Repotting for a Norfolk Island Pine is generally every 3 years or so.
If your plant is needing to be repotted, only go up 1 or 2 pot sizes larger.
Here are some articles that will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-island-pine-care.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-dropping-branches.htm
Can I move my Norfolk Island Pine out in the summer time? I live in Kansas and temperatures range from 85-110 in the summer. I was planning on putting it out of direct sunlight near the back of a small pond.
Yes, you can place your plant outdoors for summer.
Norfolk Island Pines are actually a tropical plant.
Make sure you acclimate your plant to the outdoors over a period of time and adjust your watering schedule.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-island-pine-care.htm