White pine - Ask Extension
I have 2 mature (80-100 feet) white pines. I’ve lived here 32 years and this is the first time the trees are in needle drop in the spring. There was...
Knowledgebase
White pine #870450
Asked May 28, 2024, 2:52 PM EDT
I have 2 mature (80-100 feet) white pines. I’ve lived here 32 years and this is the first time the trees are in needle drop in the spring. There was needle drop last fall as usual. Also, last year the trees produced hundreds of cones (more than ever). Any idea about the spring drop?
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Tim,
It would be helpful to see pictures of the needle drop.
Also, what type of soil are the trees growing in? Clay, sand, loam?
The abundant cones last year occurred across the state. White pine cones take two years to mature and this year the cones produced last year are maturing making their abundant numbers much more noticeable. Species of trees often synchronize when producing abundant fruit to overwhelm wildlife that feed on their seeds and ensure the tree's seeds will grow into trees. So, the abundant cones are nothing to worry about.
I'll look forward to pictures of the shedding needles. Even an entire tree picture from further back will help.
Thank you,
-Julie
It would be helpful to see pictures of the needle drop.
Also, what type of soil are the trees growing in? Clay, sand, loam?
The abundant cones last year occurred across the state. White pine cones take two years to mature and this year the cones produced last year are maturing making their abundant numbers much more noticeable. Species of trees often synchronize when producing abundant fruit to overwhelm wildlife that feed on their seeds and ensure the tree's seeds will grow into trees. So, the abundant cones are nothing to worry about.
I'll look forward to pictures of the shedding needles. Even an entire tree picture from further back will help.
Thank you,
-Julie
