Question
Hello!

My Norfolk Island Pine seems to be struggling (the smaller 2 of the 4 stems that were in the pot died, and the bottom half of the remaining 2 stems have branches that are browning, especially at the tips).

I water it regularly, after the top inch of soil (or so) dries out. It often seems that a good deal of the water runs through it, even though I recently (~1 month ago) repotted it into a pot diameter that was 1" larger than its previous one (used good quality soil). Is that normal? Maybe it needs more time yet for its roots to expand into the new, larger pot?

I read some of the archived questions on this subject, and I understand that humidity and light are important for these trees. Yesterday, I moved my Pine so that it sits in front of a western (slightly SW perhaps) facing window, and placed our small humidifier next to it.

Given all of that, my question for you is how much humidity is enough? I have a meter that measures such things, and it is saying that (with the humidifier), the area by the tree is approx. 50%. Should it be more? Are there any other measures I can take to improve life for this tree? I know it is way too soon to already expect improvements from the changes I made yesterday...But the tree is special to me, and I would like to make sure I've done all I can for it.

Thank you VERY much for your help :o)!

Erin

Answer
Hi Erin,

Increased humidity is fine, but unlikely to make a difference with your NIP. In fact, they can do quite well in very low humidity if watered properly.

From the symptoms you described, I believe there is either a light or root related problem. You didn't specify what kind of light it was getting before its recent move, so I cannot tell if that was the problem. In addition, you didn't specify the height of your NIP and the pot size it is now in or how frequently you water, so I cannot tell if watering is a problem.

If you can send me this information and also e-mail me a photo, if possible, to my address below, then I may be able to help you better.

I look forward to your reply.

Will Creed
[email protected]