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Home > Plant Care Guide > Buddhist Pine

How to Care for Buddhist Pine

The buddhist pine (*Podocarpus macrophyllus*) is a medium-sized evergreen conifer that can be trained as a bonsai tree, which is a form of Japanese horticultural art. In Feng Shui mysticism, the buddhist pine is considered to be very valuable, a fact that has led to illegal collection. The tree contains a mild toxin, so care should be exercised.

Symbolism

Hope, Pity

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Basic Care Guide

Water

A young buddhist pine will need to be regularly watered - the soil should always be moist, but not soggy. Always check that the top 5 cm of soil has dried out before watering. If you notice gray needles or brown leaf tips, then this is a sign that you are over-watering your plant. Although the plant is drought-tolerant, even established plants will fail to thrive in soil that is dry for extended periods of time.

Ground Buddhist pine watering

When a Buddhist pine is very young, such as when it is in a seedling stage, you will need to give it more water than you would if it were at a mature age. During the early stages of this plant’s life, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist to encourage root development. The same is true for any Buddhist pine that you have transplanted to a new growing location. As it continues to grow and establish, it can survive entirely on rainwater and only when the weather is hot and there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving your Buddhist pine a full watering to prevent them from suffering stress.

Potted Buddhist pine watering

For potted plants, there are two main ways that you can determine how often to water your Buddhist pine . The first way is to set a predetermined watering schedule. If you choose this route, you should plan to water this plant about once every week or once every other week. However, this approach may not always work as it does not consider the unique conditions of your Buddhist pine ’s growing environment. Your watering frequency can also change depending on the season. For instance, a predetermined watering schedule will likely not suffice during summer when this plant's water needs are highest. An alternative route is to set your watering frequency based on soil moisture. Typically, it is best to wait until the first two to four inches of soil, usually ⅓ to ½ depth of the pots, have dried out entirely before you give more water. If more than half of the soil has become dry, you should consider giving more water than usual. In those cases, continue adding water until you see excess water draining from your pot’s drainage holes.

The seasonal changes will affect how often you water your Buddhist pine . Mainly, during the hottest summer months, you will likely need to increase how much you water this plant, especially if it grows in an area that receives ample sunlight. Strong summer sunlight can cause soil to dry out much faster than usual, meaning that you’ll need to water more frequently. By contrast, your Buddhist pine will need much less water during the winter, as it will not be in an active growing phase. During winter, you can get by with watering once every 2 to 3 weeks or sometimes not at all. For those growing this plant indoors, you should be somewhat wary of appliances such as air conditioners, which can cause your plant to dry out more quickly, which also calls for more frequent watering.

Underwater and overwater

When your Buddhist pine is planted in pots, overwatering is often more likely to.When you accidentally overwater your Buddhist pine , you should be prepared to remedy the situation immediately. First, you should stop watering your plant right away to minimize the effect of your overwatering. After, you should consider removing your Buddhist pine from its pot to inspect its roots. If you find that none of the roots have developed root rot, it may be permissible to return your plant to its container. If you do discover signs of root rot, then you should trim away any roots that have been affected. You may also want to apply a fungicide to prevent further damage. Lastly, you should repot your Buddhist pine in soil that is well-draining. In the case of an underwatered Buddhist pine , simply water this plant more frequently.

Underwatering is often an easy fix. If you underwater, the plant's leaves will tend to droop and dry out and fall off, and the leaves will quickly return to fullness after sufficient watering. Please correct your watering frequency as soon as underwatering occurs.

For outdoor plants, especially newly planted plants or plant seedlings, they can be prone to lack of watering. Remember that you need to keep watering enough for a few months when the tree is small or just planted. This is because once the roots are established, Buddhist pine can rely on rain most of the time.

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What is the best way to water my Buddhist pine?

Your Buddhist pine will not be too picky about how you choose to water it. As such, you can use just about any common watering tool to moisten this plant’s soil. Watering cans, hoses, and even cups will work just fine when it is time to water your Buddhist pine. Regardless of which watering tool you use, you should typically apply the water directly to the soil. In doing so, you should ensure that you moisten all soil areas equally to give all parts of the root system the water it needs. It can help to use filtered water, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to plants. It is also beneficial to use water that is at or slightly above room temperature, as colder or hotter water can be somewhat shocking to the Buddhist pine. However, the Buddhist pine usually responds well to any kind of water you give it.

What should I do if I water my Buddhist pine too much or too little?

When your Buddhist pine is planted in pots, overwatering is often more likely to.When you accidentally overwater your Buddhist pine, you should be prepared to remedy the situation immediately. First, you should stop watering your plant right away to minimize the effect of your overwatering. After, you should consider removing your Buddhist pine from its pot to inspect its roots. If you find that none of the roots have developed root rot, it may be permissible to return your plant to its container. If you do discover signs of root rot, then you should trim away any roots that have been affected. You may also want to apply a fungicide to prevent further damage. Lastly, you should repot your Buddhist pine in soil that is well-draining. In the case of an underwatered Buddhist pine, simply water this plant more frequently.

How often should I water my Buddhist pine?

Most plants that grow naturally outdoors can be allowed to grow normally with rainfall. If your area lacks rainfall, consider giving your plants adequate watering every 2 weeks during the spring and fall. More frequent watering is needed in summer. In winter, when growth becomes slower and plants need less water, water more sparingly. Throughout the winter, you may not give it additional watering at all. If your Buddhist pine is young or newly planted, then you should water more frequently to help it establish, and mature and grow up to have more adaptable and drought tolerant plants.

Your watering frequency can also change depending on the season. For instance, a predetermined watering schedule will likely not suffice during summer when this plant's water needs are highest. An alternative route is to set your watering frequency based on soil moisture. Typically, it is best to wait until the first two to four inches of soil, usually ⅓ to ½ depth of the pots, have dried out entirely before you give more water.

How much water does my Buddhist pine need?

When it comes time to water your Buddhist pine, you may be surprised to find that this plant does not always need a high volume of water. Instead, if only a few inches of soil have dried since your last watering, you can support healthy growth in the Buddhist pine by giving it about five to ten ounces of water every time you water. You can also decide your water volume based on soil moisture. As mentioned above, you should note how many inches of soil have dried out between waterings. A surefire way to make sure your Buddhist pine gets the moisture it needs is to supply enough water to moisten all the soil layers that became dry since the last time you watered. If more than half of the soil has become dry, you should consider giving more water than usual. In those cases, continue adding water until you see excess water draining from your pot’s drainage holes.

If your Buddhist pine is planted in an area that gets plenty of rain outdoors, it may not need additional watering. When the Buddhist pine is young or just getting established, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it continues to grow and establish, it can survive entirely on rainwater and only when the weather is hot and there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving your Buddhist pine a full watering to prevent them from suffering stress.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Buddhist pine enough?

Overwatering is a far more common problem for the Buddhist pine, and there are several signs you should look for when this occurs. Generally, an overwatered Buddhist pine will have yellowing leaves and may even drop some leaves. Also, overwatering can cause the overall structure of your plant to shrivel and may also promote root rot. On the other hand, an underwatered Buddhist pine will also begin to wilt. It may also display leaves that are brown or brittle to the touch. Whether you see signs of overwatering or underwatering, you should be prepared to intervene and restore the health of your Buddhist pine.

How can I water my Buddhist pine at different growth stages?

When the Buddhist pine is very young, such as when it is in a seedling stage, you will need to give it more water than you would if it were at a mature age. During the early stages of this plant’s life, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist to encourage root development. The same is true for any Buddhist pine that you have transplanted to a new growing location. Also, the Buddhist pine can develop showy flowers and fruits when you give them the correct care. If your Buddhist pine is in a flowering or fruiting phase, you will likely need to give a bit more water than you usually would to support these plant structures.

How can I water my Buddhist pine through the seasons?

The seasonal changes will affect how often you water your Buddhist pine. Mainly, during the hottest summer months, you will likely need to increase how much you water this plant, especially if it grows in an area that receives ample sunlight. Strong summer sunlight can cause soil to dry out much faster than usual, meaning that you’ll need to water more frequently. By contrast, your Buddhist pine will need much less water during the winter, as it will not be in an active growing phase. During winter, you can get by with watering once every 2 to 3 weeks or sometimes not at all. For those growing this plant indoors, you should be somewhat wary of appliances such as air conditioners, which can cause your plant to dry out more quickly, which also calls for more frequent watering.

What's the difference between watering my Buddhist pine indoors vs outdoors?

In some cases, your Buddhist pine may not need any supplemental watering when it grows outside and will survive on rainwater alone. However, if you live in an area of little to no rain, you should water this plant about every two weeks. If you belong to the group of people who live out of this plant's natural hardiness zone, you should grow it indoors. In an indoor setting, you should monitor your plant's soil as it can dry out more quickly when it is in a container or when it is exposed to HVAC units such as air conditioners. Those drying factors will lead you to water this plant a bit more often than if you grew it outdoors.

Fertilizer

Although the buddhist pine isn't a heavy feeder, the plant benefits from a slow-releasing shrub and tree fertilizer in the spring. A formula of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 usually works well. Feed twice more in the growing season, making sure to stop 2 months before your first frost - you don't want any new growth to be damaged by the cold.

It’s impossible to miss Buddhist pine growing in the yard, it makes a statement. A popular landscaping tree in temperate climates, it’s an attractive specimen at every growth stage. It has a long lifespan, compared to some other plants, which means varying levels of care to support its growth stages that include knowing a little bit about fertilization.

Fertilizing Buddhist pine in the spring encourages healthy growth. Remember, the plant has a long lifespan, and it needs to be supported. Adding nutrients to the soil can also improve the plant’s health, making it better able to resist common pests and diseases that can stunt growth or shorten its lifespan.

The growing medium doesn’t always supply enough nutrients to support healthy growth. However, Buddhist pine is a little different from your garden annuals and perennials. It doesn’t require a lot of extra nutrients. The best time to fertilize Buddhist pine is in the spring before new growth appears.

The age of your plant plays a role in the type of fertilizer but remember Buddhist pine does not require a lot of extra nutrients. Look for a balanced plant food, it will help support healthy root development and growth but stay away from fertilizers with high nitrogen contents.

How you fertilize Buddhist pine is as important as when you add the extra nutrients. Apply the fertilizer once in the spring, around the base of the plant. Try to avoid getting any fertilizer on the trunk. If you are using a granulated fertilizer, cover the pellets with a light layer of soil. It helps ensure the fertilizer is absorbed into the soil.

It can be tempting to keep feeding Buddhist pine throughout the spring and summer. You want to encourage healthy growth, but too much fertilizer can have disastrous consequences. All types of fertilizers contain nitrogen, and the nutrient does support healthy growth. However, too much nitrogen can result in root burn.

Some plants thrive with monthly or weekly fertilization, but not Buddhist pine. It does not require a lot of extra nutrients. Too much fertilizer can cause it to start dying back. Only apply fertilizer in the spring, skipping the other seasons. In the summer, fall, and winter, do not add fertilizer or organic matter to the soil.

Why do I need to fertilize my Buddhist pine?

When is the best time to fertilize my Buddhist pine?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Buddhist pine?

What type of fertilizer does my Buddhist pine need?

How do I fertilize my Buddhist pine?

What happens if I fertilize my Buddhist pine too much?

Sunlight

The buddhist pine requires bright, but not direct, sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. It can also tolerate partial shade, but too much of this will cause slower growth, a looser growing habit, and over-elongated leaves. On the other hand, direct sun can cause leaf burn, meaning that it can sometimes be tricky finding the perfect spot for this plant in a garden. If growing your buddhist pine indoors, keep it a few meters away from a sunny window.

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How much/long should Buddhist pine get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

For healthy growth, make sure that Buddhist pine receives at least 3–6 hours of sun each day. This is actually a minimum requirement—most plants that can handle part sun can also thrive in full sun, but because they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more flexible than plants that require full sun or part shade.

What type of sunlight does Buddhist pine need?

Buddhist pine does best with exposure to full or part sun. They will perform best with direct morning light, but in summer they need protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, too much hot afternoon sun can burn the leaves, damaging the plant's appearance and health.

Can sunlight damage Buddhist pine? How to protect Buddhist pine from the sun and heat damage?

Buddhist pine planted indoors can easily be damaged by direct sunlight when it's moved outdoors. The best way to prevent sunburns from overexposure is to move pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot, gradually. But even plants that are acclimated to the summer sun can be damaged by extreme heat. In a heatwave, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist so that plants can cope with excessive levels of heat. Moving plants in containers to areas with afternoon shade or erecting a shade cloth over them can protect sensitive Buddhist pine during extreme weather events.

Does Buddhist pine need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Buddhist pine from the sun?

While bright morning sun and some full sun exposure can be highly beneficial for Buddhist pine, the harsh, hot midday sun of summer can be too much to handle.

If planted in the ground, the summer sun will usually ramp up slowly enough through the season for Buddhist pine to gradually adapt to its intensity. But a potted plant that has been indoors or in a protected location will often suffer injury when placed suddenly into a location where the direct summer sun reaches it in the hottest part of the day.

To protect this plant from the brutal afternoon summer sun, plant or place it in an understory location where it is shaded at midday by taller trees and plants or by a building or landscape feature.

What will happen if Buddhist pine gets inadequate sunlight?

When Buddhist pine receives too little sun, they may become pale green or display drooping, yellow leaves. While some leaf drop is normal, if leaves are dropping but no new ones are growing in to replace them, it is a sign that something is wrong. If Buddhist pine receiving inadequate light does manage to grow, the new growth is often spindly, pale, and prone to insect infestation. Paying attention to these signs and changing the lighting conditions of the plant will make a significant difference.

Does Buddhist pine need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Tender, new leaves are especially sensitive to sunburn. Bearing this in mind, very young Buddhist pine and when it's in a strong growth phase, such as in late spring and early summer, will be more sensitive to harsh sun and heat than the mature one or those in a more dormant fall growth stage. Buddhist pine fresh from a nursery is also usually not prepared for strong full sunlight and must be introduced to it slowly.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Buddhist pine?

Recently transplanted Buddhist pine will often experience a bit of shock and will need to be cared for carefully, either shaded from bright afternoon sun or placed in a protected area. On very hot days, you may see the leaves of Buddhist pine drooping—this is usually nothing to worry about. Plants will send the water in their leaves down into their roots to protect them from burning. However, if the leaves are still drooping in the evening or the next morning, the plant needs water. Always avoid watering during the hottest times of day, as sunlight can hit wet leaves and scorch them easily.

Buddhist pine that has been underwatered will be weaker than that with consistently moist soil. This can leave it with weak roots that are unable to protect the leaves on hot, sunny summer days by diverting water away from the leaves. Care for an underwatered plant by giving it a long, deep watering and then allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Even if it loses its leaves, if cared for properly it will grow new ones.

Pruning

The buddhist pine can be pruned in the summer or the fall, with each season having its own set of advantages. While a mid-summer pruning could mean a flush of new, spring-like growth before the season is over, pruning in the fall means better growth in the spring, but at the cost of those beautiful fruits.

Your method of pruning should be based on how you want your plant to look. If you are growing your buddhist pine as a shrub, annually prune back a third of new growth on the plant's vertical stem. this encourages side branches, giving you a fuller-looking plant. Pruning away lower branches on a tree species will put the plant's attractive bark on display, while a light pruning on just the outermost growth will enable you to create a hedge.

Do I need to prune my Buddhist pine?

Buddhist pine, like most other evergreen trees, absolutely need to be pruned in order for them to grow as happy, healthy trees. Of course, there are lots of reasons that pruning is important, so we’ll talk about those in greater detail. Pruning opens up the inner canopy to airflow and sunlight. Without keeping these pathways open, the inner canopy will be starved of sunlight and air. Therefore, pruning your Buddhist pine is not only advantageous, but it also weakens the impact of pests and infections by separating branches from one another. These benefits are far too easy to reap with Buddhist pine to neglect them. Aside from keeping your Buddhist pine happier and healthier, pruning just makes things look nice and tidy. Who doesn’t love a well-kept tree, anyway?

When is the best time to prune my Buddhist pine?

Buddhist pine can be pruned at different times depending on whether they’re grown indoors or outdoors. For outdoor trees, pruning and trimming should be done when the tree is not actively growing; this generally falls under the colder months of winter, but can vary depending on where you live. However, if you’re growing your Buddhist pine indoors, there are lots of different times of the year when it’s okay to trim lightly. For example, if you’re planning on trimming a bit off the top of just one or two smaller branches, then you can trim nearly anytime. For heavier pruning on indoor Buddhist pine, it’s best to wait until those same colder months when outdoor Buddhist pine wouldn’t normally be actively growing. Buddhist pine should be pruned as needed. Typically, these trees should be pruned to remove any damaged, yellowing, dying, or dead foliage. It is also necessary to prune this plant to remove any shoots that are congested or are crossing.

What should I do after pruning my Buddhist pine?

In order to keep your Buddhist pine growing strong, remove any branches or debris that landed at the base of the tree. Keeping the area clear can prevent weeds and underbrush from crowding out the tree, especially if it’s young. Another great tip is to use raw, organic honey to treat large open wounds on the Buddhist pine where branches were trimmed. The use of honey prevents any pathogens or potential pests from making their way in. It’s also a good idea to water a little extra after pruning for a week or two. Providing them with a little extra water helps them build natural calluses over the exposed core faster, so they can get back to growing into large, Buddhist pine!

How can I prune my Buddhist pine: tips and techniques?

While most of the Buddhist pine won’t need to be pruned until they develop some substantial height, sometimes their branches get a little carried away in the wrong direction. This is why this part of the Buddhist pine needs to be pruned in good time. Tools In order to prune your Buddhist pine properly, you’ll need the proper pruning tools. While smaller plant shears and garden scissors may not cut it (pun intended), handheld clippers, pruners and loppers will certainly help out. For very tall branches that are out of safe reach, use a pole saw with the necessary safety equipment. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves while pruning to avoid any splinters or cuts in general. How to Prune To prune your Buddhist pine, first cut away any dead, dying or diseased branches. Look for pests, irregular growth patterns, and brittle branches or leaves. Snip these off at the branch collar, where the branch intersection is, without scoring the main branch. Next, be on the lookout for extra long branches or leaves that may not be able to support a lot of weight. These branches or leaves will be too heavy and grow downwards, so this can be trimmed back if necessary. Try to find all of the branches that grow either directly up (that are not the primary trunk) and those that grow directly downward. These branches will become an issue because they can effectively block out light and air from inner branches. Trim these back to the branches they stem from as well. If there’s not much space within the canopy for light to reach the center of the tree, you can trim away some excess foliage to make windows for light to shine in.

Advanced Care Guide

Temperature

10 ℃ is usually the minimum that buddhist pine can tolerate, but it makes up for this by being extremely heat-tolerant. If your climate doesn't allow for an outdoor buddhist pine, you could grow it as a houseplant instead, but keep in mind that it needs around 50% relative humidity. this is an incredibly hardy plant - once established, it is tolerant of drought, poor drainage, air pollution, salt spray from the sea and compacted soil.

What is the optimal temperature for Buddhist pine?

Colder temperatures can affect plants since they have the same temperature as the air around them. When they are exposed to the sun, they can start to get warm again, but this is not the case during winter. The temperature range for the Buddhist pine is often 70~85℉(21~30℃). They might tolerate 20~30℉(-6~0℃) even 15℉(-10℃), but not for long since this can result in frost damage. Maximum temperatures should be around 70~85℉(21~30℃), but make sure that you spray them with water from time to time and give them some shade to prevent wilting.

Should I adjust the temperature for Buddhist pine during different growing phases?

Do some research and make sure that the temperature is right when growing Buddhist pine. Some growers might consider decreasing the plants' thermostats during the growing season to reduce HVAC costs. However, it's vital to understand that the temperature can affect the flowering, pest management, and quality of the plants.

There will be a temperature point where the Buddhist pine will stop growing, and this can happen during the winter when some species might go into a dormant state. The base temperature becomes warmer when the season changes and the Buddhist pine can grow faster. The species that are naturally growing in warm habitats have higher optimum temperatures when you compare them to the ones that thrive in a cooler climate.

When the seeds of Buddhist pine are exposed to cool temperatures, this can cause a decrease in uniformity and delays. You might also want to lower the temperature during flowering but not at other phases. Cooler temperatures at night will also require less water, so adjust the irrigation as needed.

How can I keep Buddhist pine warm in cold seasons?

Stop fertilizing the plant to avoid new growth and allow the old ones to become hardy. This way, they can endure colder temperature when it begins to drop. To keep them warm, you can build structures around the Buddhist pine like cages or trellises. There are also options to use heat mats that can gently warm the soil since they can consistently maintain an ideal temperature range for the Buddhist pine.

How can I save Buddhist pine from temperature damage?

During winter, you can protect the Buddhist pine from frost by covering it with cloths, tarps, burlaps, sheets, or plastic buckets. Make sure to keep them down so they continue to act as insulators and the wind will not blow them away. However, ensure that the plastic sheets or burlap covers should not touch any part of the fruit or foliage, or the cold temperatures can transfer to the material and cause burns. When the temperatures begin to rise during the daytime, remove the covers.

Should I adjust the temperature for Buddhist pine in different seasons?

When growing the Buddhist pine in spring, you might want to increase humidity since the air temperature tends to be cooler at this time. A dry temperature can be a stressful growing environment for various species, which can help. If summer arrives, the large cover of the greenhouse and the warm temperature will mean that there will be a higher humidity level in the air. Some signs to look for are the condensation that is often found on the walls of the greenhouse, and this can cause issues with pollination and the development of infections when the water begins to fall on the leaves. Make adjustments according to the temperature and do some spraying during the hotter days of the year.

What damage will Buddhist pine suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

Generally, the first cold snap can destroy the Buddhist pine and others might go into a dormant state when the temperature is low. Some plants can get chilled when the temperatures range from 20~30℉(-6~0℃). They can freeze when the temperature begins to drop below 32℉(0℃). Those species that hide most of their parts under the soil might lose their structures above ground, but they can recover in spring. Some of the associated issues with too low temperatures are the lack of availability of resources like water, and nutrients, and those subtropical plants can suffer when the temperature reaches below 20℉(-6℃). The plants can also get damaged because of extreme heat stress when it's too high. This can reduce the transpiration rate that can affect the growth and productivity of Buddhist pine.

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Buddhist pine?

You need to cover the plants at night since these can add about 5 degrees more to protect the species from frost and freezing temperatures. The cloth rows can work well as blankets and ensure that there are no openings where the heat could escape.

When using the covers, avoid the plastic from touching the foliage because this can cause the Buddhist pine to freeze. Remember to keep the covers during the day and stop using heat pads during the summer. It will always be worth the effort to protect the cold-intolerant plants from freezing temperatures to help them survive.

How can I keep Buddhist pine warm without a heat pad?

If you prefer not to use a heat pad, bring the Buddhist pine inside, especially if it's freezing outdoors. During spring, consider the ones you need to bring indoors and plant them in moveable pots and containers.

How can I provide Buddhist pine with an adequate temperature condition?

Most often, the ones caring for the Buddhist pine will grow them in greenhouses. This is because they can provide adequate temperature in these areas that won't affect the photosynthesis process of a specific process.

Some install the proper HVAC systems to control the temperatures of Buddhist pine. This can handle many species' cooling and heating needs, especially during the summer and winter. They generally place the cooling or heating pad under the plants rather than above to achieve their desired temperatures.

If outdoors, you can protect the Buddhist pine from frost by covering it with cloths, tarps, burlaps, sheets, or plastic buckets.

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Buddhist pine?

Heat mats are often left on Buddhist pine to set the temperatures at a more consistent level. When the weather becomes warmer during the day, you can remove them, especially if the species are exposed to the sun. Put the pads away once the plants are established and when they start growing flowers and fruits.

Soil

Other than chalk, the buddhist pine tolerates all soil types. Its roots contain organisms that fix nitrogen to the soil, meaning that it can thrive even in soils that are nitrogen-deficient. The ideal soil pH level varies hugely between 4.5 to 7.5 - the plant will thrive so long as its soil is well-drained.

Propagation

Planting

Although the buddhist pine can be propagated by seed, cuttings are usually the most efficient method. Since you want softwood cuttings with new growth, wait until early summer, picking a time early in the morning to take them. Trace the tip of a new stem back until it doesn't feel flexible anymore, and then cut it off just above this. Pull off all but the top 2 leaves and place in water, replacing the water every 2-3 days. Unlike other evergreens, cuttings can take just 4 months to root, and can then be planted in a pot.

Propagating a tree by yourself is difficult, but that doesn't mean it can't be done. If you are interested in this, you can read on.

Tree propagation can be done by cuttings, which is easy to do. Buddhist pine can be propagated during the dormant season from mid-autumn until late winter. It can be done successfully at other times, provided you avoid taking cuttings during severely cold periods. The beginning and ending of the dormant season are the most likely to be successful. Flash cuttings cannot tolerate the cold environment. If the winter temperatures in your area are low (e.g., below 0 ℉ for an extended period of time), it is recommended that you place the cuttings in a garage or outdoor incubator after cutting. This will help the cuttings to develop roots. When propagating Buddhist pine, be sure your cutting tool is large enough and sharp enough to cut cleanly through the shoots. Using a dull tool can crush or tear the plant, which can lead to infection and disease.

Sharp garden pruners
Diluted bleach solution or isopropyl alcohol to clean tools
Rooting hormone (optional but recommended)
Deep container(s) with drainage holes for planting
Well-draining planting medium such as pine bark, perlite, or a potting soil mix

Steps: Step 1: Choose healthy shoots that are about as thick as a pencil for your propagation and 6 to 8 inches long, preferably from the previous year’s growth. Once you have identified your cuttings, use disinfected garden pruners to cut off the bud tip and take the remaining branch of the front section about 7-8 inches. If you are not putting them into containers immediately, keep the cuttings moist until you are able to pot them. TIP: Pay attention to which side is up when you are taking cuttings - it can be difficult to tell when there are no leaves Step 2: Prepare your containers by filling them with the planting medium. Adding compost to the soil can facilitate plant rooting. Step 3: Dip the bottom of your Buddhist pine into rooting hormone, then insert one-third to two-thirds of the cutting into the substrate. Plant them about 2 inches apart. You should be able to plant as many as 10 to 12, depending on your container size. Step 4: Water thoroughly, making sure the potting medium is evenly moist but allowing it to drain. Step 5: Place the containers in a cold, protected location that receives some sunlight. An unheated garage, a porch, or a cold frame work well for this. Leave the Buddhist pine there throughout the winter. Water occasionally to make sure the soil doesn’t dry out completely, although it can be dryer during the coldest winter months. Start watering more often as days get warmer in the spring. It is recommended that you place the cuttings in a garage or outdoor incubator after cutting if the winter temperatures in your area are low. Step 6: Move the containers outside to a spot that gets partial sun after the last frost. You can expect to see new leaves on your Buddhist pine around the middle of spring.

It’s important to be patient with this process because it is quite slow. In fact, it can take a year or longer for Buddhist pine to be ready to be transplanted. Luckily there isn’t much maintenance during this time, and the process has a high likelihood of success. Even if your Buddhist pine is putting out new growth, they may not be ready to be planted into the ground just yet. It is more important that there are plenty of healthy roots growing. The roots should be at least 3 inches long, but many people like to wait until roots start to grow out of the drainage holes to be sure that there is a proper root system. Air layering also works to propagate trees successfully, but the procedure is relatively complicated. Pay attention to the age of the branch you want to propagate to know when to start air layering. If you're working with a branch that is old-growth, preferably from the previous year’s growth, spring is the best time for layering. If your chosen branch is new growth, mid-summer is your best bet. These warm months are the best time to encourage new root growth in your plants. A pencil-thick branch could be a good choice. Since air layering is a little more complicated than other types of layering, you’ll need a few extra tools before you begin the process. Make sure you have everything on hand and then begin!

A sharp, sanitized knife
Peat moss for wrapping
Plastic wrap for wrapping
Rubber bands or twist ties
(optional) aluminum foil
(optional) plant growth hormones

Steps: Step 1: Choose a thick upper stem and clear off the leaves around a chosen node. Step 2: Below this node, ring peel the plant to a length of 0.5 to 1 inches, completely stripping the bark of the plant. It is necessary to pay attention to safety of the plant when ring stripping. Step 3: Apply moist (not wet) peat moss to the cut area. Hold the moss in place by tightly wrapping the area with plastic wrap and ties. Apply an extra layer of aluminum foil for sun protection if needed. Step 4: Remove the stem for propagation once the peat moss is visibly filled with roots. Make sure the wrapped moss is moist during rooting. Use a syringe to inject water if you find that the peat moss is already dry.

If you have collected seeds from the tree, you can try to propagate the tree from its seeds. Only sow Buddhist pine seeds in warm weather, preferably during the later weeks of spring after any danger or frost or dropping temperatures has passed. Even in warm weather, make sure the soil is warmed up sufficiently, as cooler soil can hinder germination and growth. You need to do it indoors for a successful germination if you want to sow the seeds earlier. To sow Buddhist pine in your growing medium, you don't need many extra tools to get the job done. Put on your gardening gloves and get started!

Healthy and full seeds, the germination rate of such seeds will be higher
Growing medium with potting mix soil divided into rows
Fertilizer or compost
(optional) a dibbler or stake
A spray bottle to hydrates the soil
A piece of plastic film (Optional)

Steps: Step 1: Prepare the soil: Mix the soil with organic fertilizer. Fully rotted fertilizer is recommended, and the volume of the fertilizer should not exceed one quarter of the volume of the soil when mixing. Step 2: Sprinkle the plants in the soil and cover the seed surface with soil afterwards. Or use a dibbler or stake to pre-dig holes for the seeds, placing about 3 seeds in each mound. The depth of the soil on the surface of the seed needs to be about five times the thickness of the seed. Step 3: Leave a 4-6-inch gap between each seed mound. Step 4: Water the soil in the container well after planting to provide enough water for the seeds to germinate. Step 5: Mulch the surface of the container soil to moisturize the soil and promote seed germination. Use a spray can to spray the soil with water when the soil is relatively dry. Keep this until the seeds germinate. Note: Before seeds germinate, they can be kept in a low light location. But after the seeds germinate, you need to add light to the plant in time, otherwise it will excessive growth

Choose a location in your garden that receives bright but indirect sunlight. Check the final height and spread for the variety you are growing - you may need to space your plant up to 11 m away from other plants and buildings. Early spring is the best time of year to plant your buddhist pine, but it can be planted in the fall too.

Planting in the garden: Dig a hole that is twice as wide, but the same depth, as the root ball of your plant. Place your plant in so that the root ball sits about 1.3 cm above the surface level of the ground, before half-filling the hole. Fill the rest of the hole with water, allowing it to drain away fully before filling in the hole with soil, keeping the plant at the same depth. Tamp down and water once more.

Planting in a container: Choose a container that is 15 to 20 cm wider than your plant's root ball - this will allow for about 2 years growth. Use a quality potting mix or soil, adding in 10% perlite to improve drainage. Pour a small amount into the pot and place the plant in - the top of the root ball should be 2.5 cm below the height of the pot's edge. Fill in with soil and tamp down, before watering thoroughly.

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

Seasonal Care Tips

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

Temperate trees and shrubs like your plant require little care in the spring, but it is the best time for planting.

Wait to plant until the soil is warm in a protected area with partial sunlight.

Deeply water new specimens but leave mature ones alone except in severe droughts.

Fertilize every three or four weeks or apply a layer of compost once in early spring.

Prune back any dead growth and shape the plant.

If growing in a container, move the plant to a sunny location.

Hot summer temperatures are the reason temperate trees and shrubs like this plant thrive in partially shady areas.

Increase watering when rainfall is scarce, even with mature specimens. The soak and dry method work best.

Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and remove any debris from the area.

Apply another application of fertilizer or compost to the base of the plant.

Prune back any excessive growth but watch out for newly emerging leaf buds. Try to leave those on the plant for fall growth.

Continue caring for your plant through the fall, when it can add some decoration to gardens or rooms.

Add fertilizer and cold protection to your plant in the form of mulch to help it survive the colder weather, especially when it’s planted outdoors in colder locations.

You can plant new shrubs during this season.

Continue providing established plants with regular watering, soaking dry soil.

Look out for pests and diseases, including leaf spots and mealybugs.

Keep the shrubs in a shady locations, but make sure it gets some exposure to bright, indirect light, especially if it’s grown indoors.

While the plant is somewhat dormant during this season, it can also provide some lovely decoration and requires some care to keep it looking its best.

In the winter, you can take the opportunity to prune away overcrowding, dead, or diseased branches. Dormancy is the best time to perform these tidying tasks.

Sensitive plants can be brought indoors to overwinter away from frost and cold wind if they’re potted and able to be moved. Otherwise, the plant may do well outdoors in more tropical locations, where the temperature doesn’t plummet so much.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Buddhist pine based on 10 million real cases

Leaf scorch

Leaf blight causes leaves to dry out and turn brown starting at their tips.

Solutions: The solution to leaf scorch will depend on the cause, however, in general all cultural care methods that improve plant health and root functionality will reduce symptoms. Mulching the root zone (preferably with wood chip mulch) helps retain moisture, reduce evaporation, and promotes a healthy, functional root environment that is critical for water movement to the leaves. Check the root collar for girdling or circling roots that strangle the trunk and limit water and nutrient movement. Protect trees from severe root damage of nearby construction and excavation. If fertilizer burn is to blame, irrigate the soil deeply to flush out excess fertilizer salts. However, keep in mind that fertilizer runoff is an environmental pollutant. Avoiding excess fertilization in the first place is the best approach. If soil testing has revealed a potassium deficiency, apply a potassium fertilizer and water well. Even if you have enough potassium in the soil, plants will not be able to take it up if the soil is consistently too dry. Severely affected twigs may be removed using a pair of sharp and sanitized pruning shears, as weakened branches are susceptible to secondary infections. If your plant has bacterial leaf scorch, there is no cure. Antibiotic injections applied by a professional can reduce symptoms for a season, however, the above cultural management methods are the best options to reduce symptoms and prolong life. An infected plant will likely die within ten years.

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

Solutions: If the yellowing and drying of leaves and flowers is a natural progression due to age, nothing can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible.

Sooty mold

Sooty mildew causes black mold on the leaves that can be wiped away.

Solutions: The first step in treating the plant is to eradicate the insects that secrete the honeydew substance. Visually inspect the plant for insects, making sure to look on the underside of leaves and in the crotch of branches. Insects that may be present are as follows: Aphids are minuscule pear-shaped bugs. Most are green in color. Whiteflies are pale in color, almost translucent, and are covered with a powdery whitish wax. They may look like tiny white moths. Scale appears as small brown bumps attached to the leaves and branches, with either a soft or armored coating. Mealybugs are small white insects that look like cotton wool. To treat insect infestation, follow these steps: Handpick insects off if the infestation is minor. Wipe plant leaves gently with a clean, damp cloth or spray with a jet of water from the hose to dislodge them. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil for serious infestations. The fatty acids in insecticidal soaps suffocate small-bodied insects. Neem oil is a common botanical pesticide that blocks the hormones that transition insects from larva to pupa to adult, halting the insect’s life cycle. Once the insect infestation has been treated, remove as much mold from the leaves as possible. The remaining mold will dry out due to the lack of honeydew and will fall off the plant. Wash with insecticidal or very dilute dishwashing soap. Apply a couple of hours before rain is predicted, if possible. The soap will help soften the soot, making it easier to rinse it away. Spray plants with a steady stream of water.

Branch blight

Branch blight can cause lignified branches to dry up entirely and die.

Solutions: Inspect trees frequently, and remove any infected branches as soon as possible. Branch blight cannot be cured, so the only treatment is to prune the tree and monitor it carefully for signs of the disease. All affected parts of the tree should be removed, since blight can survive over the winter inside the plant’s tissues. Blight can become systemic in the tree, in which case the entire plant should be removed so it does not remain a host for the pathogen and allow it to spread.

Plant dried up

The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.

Solutions: The solution for a dried out plant depends on the cause, so determine the cause before selecting a treatment method. Adjust your watering: Stick your finger in the soil near the roots. If it feels bone dry or overly saturated, you need to adjust your watering frequency accordingly. Prune back dead foliage: Snip off any brown stems and leaves on the plant to make space for new growth. This encourages the roots to send up fresh stems. Move to a proper environment. This may involve decreasing or increasing sun exposure, depending on the species. Decrease fertilizer applications. If you have applied too much fertilizer, you can repot plants with fresh potting soil. Wait. If your plant has dried out as daylight is decreasing, it is entering dormancy. Decrease watering and wait until the plant resumes growth.

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Toxicity

Toxic to Dogs

The fruits and leaves of buddhist pine contain an unknown toxin that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea in dogs when consumed. The highest concentration of toxic chemicals is in the plant's cones. The dog may consider the cones tasty, which could lead to his/her ingesting a lethal dose in a short period of time. Contact your veterinarian if you believe your dog has consumed a large number of the cones.

Toxic to Cats

Buddhist pine (Podocarpus macrophyllus) is moderately toxic to cats, with vomiting and diarrhea being the most common symptoms. The fruits and leaves are the most poisonous parts of this plant. Veterinary care should be sought if an animal is seen nibbling on any part of this plant.

More About Buddhist Pine

Plant Type

Tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Spread

4.5 to 6 m

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer

Flower Color

Yellow

Green

Gold

Leaf Color

Green

Plant Height

5 to 20 m

Name story

Buddhist pine

This plant is originated from China. Buddhist pine is highly regarded as a feng shui tree in Hong Kong which elevates its market value. The Chinese name of the plant means "arhat pine" in which arhat is an important character in Buddhism. Hence, it is very common for it to be referred to as Buddhist pine.

Usages

Garden Use

Buddhist pine needs a warmer climate to thrive outside in a garden; in these cases it can be a good choice for topiary plantings, or for hedges and screens with heavy pruning. For good color and texture contrast, try planting Kohuhu, Crape myrtle, or Lily of the nile alongside it.

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Common Problems

Why are the leaves of my buddhist pine turning yellow?

There are a few possible reasons for this. Firstly, your soil may be too alkaline, in which case its pH needs to be adjusted. You should also add a soluble chelated iron to the soil, spraying it onto the foliage too. Over-watering or poor drainage can also cause yellowing - drainage can be improved by mixing an organic material into the soil. Certain pests, such as aphids and scales, could also be the cause - spray with a horticultural oil to rid your plant of both.

Why are the leaves of my buddhist pine starting to curl?

There could be several reasons for this, but the most common is low humidity. this is often seen in houseplants - a dedicated humidifier may be needed in order provide at least 50% humidity year-round. For outdoor plants, try misting them daily. Keep other plants around them too, as all of the extra foliage will help to trap in moisture. If humidity is sufficient, check soil moisture for over-watering or under-watering, and make sure that you aren't adding a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to the soil.

Caring for a New Plant

The following pictures and instructions for woody plant are aimed to help your plants adapt and thrive in a new environment.

Picking a Healthy Woody Plant

Check Its Health

Whole Plant

Symmetrical crown, evenly distributed branches, full and compact shape, no excessive growth, close internodes, and uniform leaf size.

Branches

The branches are not withered, and the trunk is free of boreholes or damage.

Leaves

Check the inside of the plant, shaded and overlapping areas, back of leaves. Even colour, no yellowing, no brown spots, no crawling insects, no cobwebs, no deformities, no wilting.

Stems

No mold, browning or soft rot at the base of the plant.

Health Troubleshooting

Whole Plant

1 Asymmetrical crown or missing, uneven branching: prune the weak and slender branches of the larger portion of the asymmetrical crown.

2 Internodes are longer in the upper part, leaves are sparse and smaller on top: increase light intensity or duration.

Branches

1 Dry branches: check if the branch is still alive by peeling back a small section of bark and trim away any dry branches. Watch out for signs of insect infestation inside the branch.

2 Bark with holes: inject insecticide into the holes and apply systemic insecticide to the roots.

3 Damaged bark: brush on a wound-healing agent, and avoid getting it wet.

Stems

Mildew, browning, or soft rot at the base: place the plant in a ventilated, dry environment and water with fungicide.

Leaves

1 Uneven leaf color and yellowing: prune yellow leaves and check if there are signs of rot at the base of the plant. Spray with fungicide for severe cases.

2 Brown spots or small yellow spots: place the plant in a ventilated area and avoid watering the leaves. Spray with fungicide for severe cases.

3 Tiny crawling insects on the back of leaves or spider webs between leaves: increase light exposure and spray with insecticide for severe cases.

4 Deformations or missing parts on leaves: determine if it's physical damage or pest infestation. Linear or tearing damage is physical, while the rest are pests. Spray with insecticide.

5 Wilting leaves: provide partial shade and avoid excessive sun exposure. Remove 1/3 to 1/2 of the leaves for severe cases.

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Check Its Growing Conditions

Soil Check

Soil should smell fresh like after a rain and no musty odor.

Light Check

Check the light requirement of the plant and if it match with planting location.

Temperature Check

Check if the current outdoor temperature is too low or too high.

Condition Troubleshooting

Soil

Potting mix soil, Peat moss mix soil

Soil smells musty or foul: check the root system for decay, place the plant in a ventilated, dry environment, and water with fungicide.

Ideal Temperature

0 to 35 ℃

Outdoor temperature is not suitable for the plant: wait until it's a more favorable temperature for growth.

Suitable Light

Full sun, Partial sun

Insufficient light: Lack of light can result in fewer leaves and branches, and prevent flowering. Move plant to sunnier spot if possible.

Transplant recovery: After 3 days without severe wilting, slowly increase light to normal levels over a week. If plant droops or sheds leaves, keep it in shade. Once wilting stops, give shade until the plant stands up again. Lots of yellowing and leaf loss mean the light is too low and needs to be increased.

Adapting Your New Woody Plant

Step 1

Repotting

Plant your plant promptly in its final location or in a new pot, if conditions are suitable. When transplanting, clean the roots of the plant and keep the root system intact. Prune any blackened or rotten roots, spread out a heavily tangled root system, and mix in some well-rotted organic fertilizer. Use permeable soil and water thoroughly after planting.

Step 2

Pruning

Remove yellow or diseased leaves immediately. If leaves are crowded and appear wilted or falling off, remove some of them. For bare-root plants, cut off at least half of the leaves. Pruning is not typically required.

Step 3

Watering

Increase watering in the first week to keep soil moist. Water when soil is slightly dry, for at least 2 weeks. Avoid over-watering. Do not water when there is water on your fingers after touching the soil.

Step 4

Fertilizing

Add a small amount of base fertilizer during transplanting or repotting. No other fertilizer needed for the first month.

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Buddhist Pine

Repotting

Plant promptly in final location or new pot. Clean roots, use organic fertilizer, permeable soil, and water thoroughly.

Pruning

Cut off yellow or diseased leaves and crowded leaves that appear wilted or falling.

Watering

Water new plants more often for 2 weeks. Avoid over/under watering by checking the soil.

Fertilizing

Add base fertilizer during transplanting. No other fertilizer is needed for the first month.

Sunlight

Regular sun exposure for indoor plants. Shade after transplanting/repotting, then gradually increase light if there is no wilting. Increase light if yellowing and leaf drop occur.

Save and print our adaptation tips card for quick and easy reference.

Download

Buddhist Pine

Repotting

Plant promptly in final location or new pot. Clean roots, use organic fertilizer, permeable soil, and water thoroughly.

Pruning

Cut off yellow or diseased leaves and crowded leaves that appear wilted or falling.

Watering

Water new plants more often for 2 weeks. Avoid over/under watering by checking the soil.

Fertilizing

Add base fertilizer during transplanting. No other fertilizer is needed for the first month.

Sunlight

Regular sun exposure for indoor plants. Shade after transplanting/repotting, then gradually increase light if there is no wilting. Increase light if yellowing and leaf drop occur.

Plants with Same Care Needs

Poison ivy

In pop culture, poison ivy is a symbol of an obnoxious weed because, despite its unthreatening looks, it gives a highly unpleasant contact rash to the unfortunate person who touches it. Still, it is commonly eaten by many animals, and the seeds are a favorite with birds. The leaves turn bright red in fall. Its sister species, Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii), is not considered to be invasive in the United States, but is noxious in Australia and New Zealand.

Bloom Time

Mid spring

Garden phlox

The garden phlox is a flowering plant that is native to the United States. The name, phlox, comes from the Latin for "flame," reflecting its bright colors. Garden phlox flowers can become important food sources for insects and hummingbirds.

Bloom Time

Mid spring

Ground ivy

Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea) is a perennial evergreen trailing plant, often found in grasslands and woodlands. Saxon peoples once spread the plant, but it has become invasive in some parts of the world now. The fast-growing ground ivy can be toxic to horses but generally cannot harm other animals or humans.

Bloom Time

Mid spring

Persian silk tree

Albizia julibrissin, colloquially known as persian silk tree, is a deciduous plant with characteristic pink, fuzzy inflorescences. Persian silk tree is mainly cultivated for decorative purposes. Its flowers have a mild, sweet smell and are often visited by butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.

Bloom Time

Mid spring

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How to Care for Buddhist Pine

Symbolism

Hope, Pity

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Basic Care Guide

Water

Ground Buddhist pine watering

Potted Buddhist pine watering

Underwater and overwater

Never miss a care task again!

Plant care made easier than ever with our tailor-made smart care reminder.

What is the best way to water my Buddhist pine?

What should I do if I water my Buddhist pine too much or too little?

How often should I water my Buddhist pine?

How much water does my Buddhist pine need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Buddhist pine enough?

How can I water my Buddhist pine at different growth stages?

How can I water my Buddhist pine through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering my Buddhist pine indoors vs outdoors?

Fertilizer

Why do I need to fertilize my Buddhist pine?

When is the best time to fertilize my Buddhist pine?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Buddhist pine?

What type of fertilizer does my Buddhist pine need?

How do I fertilize my Buddhist pine?

What happens if I fertilize my Buddhist pine too much?

Sunlight

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

How much/long should Buddhist pine get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

What type of sunlight does Buddhist pine need?

Can sunlight damage Buddhist pine? How to protect Buddhist pine from the sun and heat damage?

Does Buddhist pine need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Buddhist pine from the sun?

What will happen if Buddhist pine gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Buddhist pine need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Buddhist pine?

Pruning

Do I need to prune my Buddhist pine?

When is the best time to prune my Buddhist pine?

What should I do after pruning my Buddhist pine?

How can I prune my Buddhist pine: tips and techniques?

Advanced Care Guide

Temperature

What is the optimal temperature for Buddhist pine?

Should I adjust the temperature for Buddhist pine during different growing phases?

How can I keep Buddhist pine warm in cold seasons?

How can I save Buddhist pine from temperature damage?

Should I adjust the temperature for Buddhist pine in different seasons?

What damage will Buddhist pine suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Buddhist pine?

How can I keep Buddhist pine warm without a heat pad?

How can I provide Buddhist pine with an adequate temperature condition?

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Buddhist pine?

Soil

Propagation

Planting

Propagating a tree by yourself is difficult, but that doesn't mean it can't be done. If you are interested in this, you can read on.

Sharp garden pruners
Diluted bleach solution or isopropyl alcohol to clean tools
Rooting hormone (optional but recommended)
Deep container(s) with drainage holes for planting
Well-draining planting medium such as pine bark, perlite, or a potting soil mix

A sharp, sanitized knife
Peat moss for wrapping
Plastic wrap for wrapping
Rubber bands or twist ties
(optional) aluminum foil
(optional) plant growth hormones

Healthy and full seeds, the germination rate of such seeds will be higher
Growing medium with potting mix soil divided into rows
Fertilizer or compost
(optional) a dibbler or stake
A spray bottle to hydrates the soil
A piece of plastic film (Optional)

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

Seasonal Care Tips

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

Temperate trees and shrubs like your plant require little care in the spring, but it is the best time for planting.

Wait to plant until the soil is warm in a protected area with partial sunlight.

Deeply water new specimens but leave mature ones alone except in severe droughts.

Fertilize every three or four weeks or apply a layer of compost once in early spring.

Prune back any dead growth and shape the plant.

If growing in a container, move the plant to a sunny location.

Hot summer temperatures are the reason temperate trees and shrubs like this plant thrive in partially shady areas.

Increase watering when rainfall is scarce, even with mature specimens. The soak and dry method work best.

Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and remove any debris from the area.

Apply another application of fertilizer or compost to the base of the plant.

Prune back any excessive growth but watch out for newly emerging leaf buds. Try to leave those on the plant for fall growth.

Continue caring for your plant through the fall, when it can add some decoration to gardens or rooms.

Add fertilizer and cold protection to your plant in the form of mulch to help it survive the colder weather, especially when it’s planted outdoors in colder locations.

You can plant new shrubs during this season.

Continue providing established plants with regular watering, soaking dry soil.

Look out for pests and diseases, including leaf spots and mealybugs.

Keep the shrubs in a shady locations, but make sure it gets some exposure to bright, indirect light, especially if it’s grown indoors.

While the plant is somewhat dormant during this season, it can also provide some lovely decoration and requires some care to keep it looking its best.

In the winter, you can take the opportunity to prune away overcrowding, dead, or diseased branches. Dormancy is the best time to perform these tidying tasks.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Buddhist pine based on 10 million real cases

Leaf scorch

Leaf blight causes leaves to dry out and turn brown starting at their tips.

Learn More

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Learn More

Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

Learn More

Sooty mold

Sooty mildew causes black mold on the leaves that can be wiped away.

Learn More

Branch blight

Branch blight can cause lignified branches to dry up entirely and die.

Learn More

Plant dried up

The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.

Learn More

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Toxicity

Toxic to Dogs

Toxic to Cats

* The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Buddhist Pine

Plant Type

Tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Spread

4.5 to 6 m

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer

Flower Color

Yellow

Green

Gold

Leaf Color

Green

Plant Height

5 to 20 m

Name story

Buddhist pine

Usages

Garden Use

View More Info

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Common Problems

Why are the leaves of my buddhist pine turning yellow?

Why are the leaves of my buddhist pine starting to curl?

Caring for a New Plant

The following pictures and instructions for woody plant are aimed to help your plants adapt and thrive in a new environment.

Picking a Healthy Woody Plant

Check Its Health

Whole Plant

Symmetrical crown, evenly distributed branches, full and compact shape, no excessive growth, close internodes, and uniform leaf size.

Branches

The branches are not withered, and the trunk is free of boreholes or damage.

Leaves

Check the inside of the plant, shaded and overlapping areas, back of leaves. Even colour, no yellowing, no brown spots, no crawling insects, no cobwebs, no deformities, no wilting.

Stems

No mold, browning or soft rot at the base of the plant.

Health Troubleshooting

Whole Plant

Branches

Stems

Leaves

1 Asymmetrical crown or missing, uneven branching: prune the weak and slender branches of the larger portion of the asymmetrical crown.

2 Internodes are longer in the upper part, leaves are sparse and smaller on top: increase light intensity or duration.

1 Dry branches: check if the branch is still alive by peeling back a small section of bark and trim away any dry branches. Watch out for signs of insect infestation inside the branch.

2 Bark with holes: inject insecticide into the holes and apply systemic insecticide to the roots.

3 Damaged bark: brush on a wound-healing agent, and avoid getting it wet.

Mildew, browning, or soft rot at the base: place the plant in a ventilated, dry environment and water with fungicide.

1 Uneven leaf color and yellowing: prune yellow leaves and check if there are signs of rot at the base of the plant. Spray with fungicide for severe cases.

2 Brown spots or small yellow spots: place the plant in a ventilated area and avoid watering the leaves. Spray with fungicide for severe cases.

3 Tiny crawling insects on the back of leaves or spider webs between leaves: increase light exposure and spray with insecticide for severe cases.

4 Deformations or missing parts on leaves: determine if it's physical damage or pest infestation. Linear or tearing damage is physical, while the rest are pests. Spray with insecticide.

5 Wilting leaves: provide partial shade and avoid excessive sun exposure. Remove 1/3 to 1/2 of the leaves for severe cases.

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Check Its Growing Conditions

Soil Check

Soil should smell fresh like after a rain and no musty odor.

Light Check

Check the light requirement of the plant and if it match with planting location.

Temperature Check

Check if the current outdoor temperature is too low or too high.

Condition Troubleshooting

Soil

Ideal Temperature

Suitable Light

Potting mix soil, Peat moss mix soil

Soil

Soil smells musty or foul: check the root system for decay, place the plant in a ventilated, dry environment, and water with fungicide.

0 to 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Outdoor temperature is not suitable for the plant: wait until it's a more favorable temperature for growth.

Full sun, Partial sun

Suitable Light

Insufficient light: Lack of light can result in fewer leaves and branches, and prevent flowering. Move plant to sunnier spot if possible.

Adapting Your New Woody Plant

Step 1

Repotting

Step 2

Pruning

Step 3

Watering

Step 4

Fertilizing

Add a small amount of base fertilizer during transplanting or repotting. No other fertilizer needed for the first month.

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Plants with Same Care Needs

Poison ivy

Toxicodendron radicans

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How to Care for Buddhist Pine

Symbolism

Basic Care Guide

Water

Water

Never miss a care task again!

Fertilizer

Fertilizer

Sunlight

Know the light your plants really get.

Pruning

Advanced Care Guide

Temperature

Soil

Propagation

Planting

Propagation

Potting Suggestions

Seasonal Care Tips

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

Temperate trees and shrubs like your plant require little care in the spring, but it is the best time for planting.

Hot summer temperatures are the reason temperate trees and shrubs like this plant thrive in partially shady areas.

Continue caring for your plant through the fall, when it can add some decoration to gardens or rooms.

While the plant is somewhat dormant during this season, it can also provide some lovely decoration and requires some care to keep it looking its best.

Common Pests & Diseases

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

Toxicity

Aloe

Philodendron

Peace Lily

Snake Plant

Daffodil

Hydrangea

Rhododendrons

Rhubarb

Bittersweet Nightshade

Buttercups

Foxgloves

How to Tend to Poisonous Plants

How to Get Rid of Poisonous Plants

Aloe

Philodendron

Peace Lily

Snake Plant

Daffodil

Hydrangea

Rhododendrons

Rhubarb

Bittersweet Nightshade

Buttercups

Foxgloves

How to Tend to Poisonous Plants

How to Get Rid of Poisonous Plants

More About Buddhist Pine

Name story

Usages

Find your perfect green friends.

Common Problems

Why are the leaves of my buddhist pine turning yellow?

Why are the leaves of my buddhist pine starting to curl?

Caring for a New Plant

Check Its Health

Health Troubleshooting

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

Check Its Growing Conditions

Condition Troubleshooting

Know the light your plants really get.

Plants with Same Care Needs

Botanist in your pocket

App

How to Care for Buddhist Pine

Symbolism

Basic Care Guide

Water

Water

Never miss a care task again!

Fertilizer