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Top Questions About Norfolk Island Pine Trees

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Questions About Norfolk Island Pine Trees

  • Answered by
    Downtoearthdigs on
    March 22, 2017
    A.

    Norfolk Island Pine commonly will split trunks. They are susceptible to wind damage, which is often the cause of damage to these trees.

    My research showed many reports of the tree splitting into two leaders.

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  • Answered by
    Alisma on
    March 27, 2017
    Certified Expert
    A.

    It is normal for a Norfolk pine to lose a few lower branches as it grows, so if the tree is still growing at the top, it is probably fine. However, if it's not growing at the top or looks unhealthy overall, there could be a problem with watering or light. Both overwatering and underwatering could cause the death of branches- make sure you water when the soil surface is dry but don't keep the soil constantly wet. Also make sure the tree has enough light and humidity as described here:
    https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-island-pine-care.htm

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  • Answered by
    Alisma on
    March 27, 2017
    Certified Expert
    A.

    The dead branches will not grow back, since Norfolk pine only grows from the top. You may still be able to keep the plant alive- check to make sure it is not overwatered or underwatered, and that it has enough humidity and light, as explained here:

    https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-island-pine-care.htm
    https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-dropping-branches.htm

    If you don't like the plant's appearance without the lower branches, you are better off discarding it and starting with a new plant.

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  • Answered by
    Alisma on
    March 27, 2017
    Certified Expert
    A.

    A leaning Norfolk pine is often caused by a too-small root system, which destabilizes the tree. This can happen if it's growing in a pot or in an enclosed, small yard space. Unfortunately, leaning Norfolk pines can create a safety hazard, since they've been known to fall on houses.

    Norfolk pines only grow from the top, so if you remove the top, it won't continue growing well, and this might make it appear even more lopsided. However, doing this might prevent the safety issue. The other option is removing the tree.

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  • Answered by
    Downtoearthdigs on
    April 9, 2017
    A.

    Unfortunately it is difficult to replicate the growing conditions that Norfolk Island prefer. Good sunlight and high humidity.
    Incorrect watering, too much or too little can also result in excessive needle and branch dropping.
    This is a very old specimen and even though the overall height of the plant is still appropriate to your home, many times these plants outgrown the home environment.
    Pruning is not an option with Norfolk Island Pine, topping the plant will just give you a plant with no top.
    It really is best to start over with a new plant.

    https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-dropping-branches.htm

    https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-island-pine-care.htm

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  • Answered by
    Alisma on
    April 28, 2017
    Certified Expert
    A.

    The best thing you can do is just give the tree its usual care and avoid overwatering. Wait a few months to see if it's beginning to recover, and at that point you can prune off dead foliage. Norfolk pines don't usually grow back well, though, so it will probably never look the same.

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  • Answered by
    Downtoearthdigs on
    May 8, 2017
    A.

    This can be a common issue with an indoor Norfolk Island Pine.
    They need a high humidity to stay green and hydrated.
    This article has more information.

    https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-island-pine-care.htm

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