Pine is a coniferous tree that belongs to the Pinaceae family. Pine is a valuable type of wood that is used in construction, furniture production, and also in medicine.
Pine can be grown in a variety of climate zones, but it grows best in temperate regions.
1. Variety selection
When choosing a pine variety, the following factors must be taken into account:
- Purpose of cultivation. For cultivation as an ornamental plant, varieties with a beautiful crown shape and brightly colored needles are selected. For cultivation as a fruit tree, varieties with large and tasty cones are selected.
- Maturing period. Pine can be early ripening, mid ripening and late ripening. Early-ripening pine varieties begin to bear fruit after 20-25 years, mid-ripening - after 25-30 years, late-ripening - after 30-35 years.
2. Soil preparation
Pine is a light-loving and moisture-loving crop, so to grow it you need to prepare a sunny and humid place.
In autumn, the site is dug up to a depth of 25-30 cm and organic fertilizers (manure, compost, humus) are applied at the rate of 5-6 kg per 1 m². In spring, the soil is leveled and planting holes are made with a depth and diameter of 60-70 cm.
3. Landing
Pine seedlings are planted in the spring, when the threat of frost has passed.
A drainage layer of broken brick or crushed stone is poured into the planting hole, then a layer of fertile soil. The seedlings are planted so that the root collar is at soil level. After planting, the seedlings are watered abundantly.
4. Plant care
Pine is an unpretentious plant, but to obtain a good harvest the following measures must be taken:
- Watering. Pine is a moisture-loving crop, so it needs to be watered regularly. Water the plants 2-3 times a week, using 10-15 liters of water per 1 m².
- Feeding. During the period of active plant growth, 2-3 fertilizing with mineral fertilizers is carried out. The first feeding is carried out in the phase of 3-4 true leaves, the second - in the flowering phase, the third - in the fruiting phase.
- Trimming. To form the pine crown, pruning is carried out. Pruning is carried out in the spring, before the buds open.
- Protection from pests and diseases. Pine can be attacked by pests and diseases. To protect plants from pests and diseases, plants are sprayed with special preparations.
5. Harvest
Pine cones ripen in September-October.
The cones are harvested when they are fully ripe and turn yellow. Cones are collected manually or using special devices.
Some tips for growing pine trees
- To obtain an earlier harvest of pine, you can grow it from seeds. Pine seeds are sown in open ground in the fall.
- To increase the yield of pine, you can plant it next to other coniferous trees. Coniferous trees create a favorable microclimate for pine growth.