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What can I do to save my Norfolk Island pine? #229461

Asked March 03, 2015, 10:39 AM EST

I have a Norfolk Island pine that is gradually getting dry and brittle branches. What causes this, and what can I do to save at least the healthy part of the tree?

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi,

Indoor winter environments can be difficult for plants. Here is some information from the U concerning Norfolk pine:

Norfolk Island Pine can be a beautiful focal plant in your home if you have a place where it receives bright light for at least part of the day. They will tolerate lower light for a while, but if not returned to bright light, the branches will droop and the new growth will be weak and pale colored. The most common problems Norfolk Island Pine face indoors are browning needles and dropping lower branches. Usually they can be attributed to hot dry air, low humidity, or allowing the soil to dry excessively before watering. Too much fertilizer can also contribute to needle drop and branch loss. It can be difficult to control the humidity in the home, but careful watering will help compensate for low humidity. Keep the soil moist, but not saturated, and water the plant whenever the soil surface feels dry. Like many of our indoor plants, the lower light intensity and the cooler temperatures of winter make it imperative that these plants are not overwatered.

In short, you need bright sunlight, some humidity, and moist (but not wet) soil.

Thank you for your inquiry and good luck! Replied March 03, 2015, 11:04 AM EST

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