Question
i have had my Norfolk Is pine for like 30 yrs. it is
probably 12 ft tall and 5 or more around.  I need a new
home for it.  Or where could I plant it so it would live
outside??It is currently residing (lol) on Ocracoke Island,
N.C.  It does not freeze a lot there but there are some
freezing temperatures here and there.  If it could be
planted there would it have to be in the shade???
Thank you very much Mr. Jim
This plant is like one of my animals.  It has been with me
like I said almost 30years.  I think it was given to me
from a friend in 1982 - could be earlier then that or a
little later. It is a beautiful plant and has never been
cut or pruned.  Its fronds are like 5 ft long or more.


Answer
Norfolk island pines grow best in zones 9-10. Your location is 8. They can grow in either partial shade or full sunlight. The freezing temperature maybe the problem. I assume it is in a pot now. I would ait unitl next early spring if you wanted to plant it outside. Dig the hole twice the size of the pot and as deep and fill with top soil and mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch not piled up on the trunk. During freezing temperatures in the winter I would try covering it to keep the frost off.  At least the first winter so it can adjust to the weather.