Question
My pine is about 5ft. tall, and about 3ft. round. The pot is 2ft. by 2ft. It sits at a south double window so it gets lots of sun. The problem is it has started loosing all its branches. The top two layers are still very healthy. What type of plant food or fertilizer should it get to keep it from dying. Any suggestions will be very helpful. Thank you.

Answer
Hi Susan,

It is normal for NIP's to lose lower branches as they age and add new ones on top. However, they should add as many as they lose and apparently that has not happened with yours.

Unfortunately, something as simple as fertilizer is not the answer. Nutrient deficiency is not the cause of the lower branch loss.

Light could be a problem as the direct sun from the south along with the heat that comes with it may be too much for your NIP. Pot size and watering may also be a problem. A tree that tall should not be in a pot more than 12" in diameter. The extra soil tends to retain moisture for a long time and substantially increases the chances of root rot.

I do not know your watering routine so it is hard for me to be definitive here.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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