Here's how to care for Norfolk Island pine during, after holidays [Master Gardener column]

Norfolk Island pines decorated as small Christmas trees are frequently given as gifts over the holidays. With simple care, they will thrive well beyond one season.

What is a Norfolk Island pine?

The small, potted plants that we know as Norfolk Island pines originated on an uninhabited island near Australia, which Capt. James Cook named in 1774. Impressively large “pines” of the island, reaching 200 feet in height, seemed like a promising choice for ship masts, but they proved too brittle. Not truly a pine (Pinus), the Norfolk Island pine’s botanical name is Araucaria heterophylla, and it is related to the monkey puzzle tree.

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How should I care for a Norfolk Island pine?

Since Norfolk Island pines originated in the subtropical South Pacific, they cannot survive outdoors in our climate. Think of them as houseplants.

— Temperature: The minimum temperature that they can withstand is around 50 F. They prefer a nighttime temperature that is about 10 F colder than daytime.

— Light: Place Norfolk Island pines near a bright window — avoid northern exposure, which will result in the least amount of light. If you place them outdoors in summer, note that Norfolk Island pines grow well in full sun but benefit from some afternoon shade.

— Water and fertilizer: Water Norfolk Island pines when the surface of the soil seems dry to the touch. The soil should not be constantly saturated. Avoid overhead watering. You may fertilize Norfolk Island pines when you see them pushing out new growth, but use fertilizer sparingly to keep the plant compact.

— Humidity: The best humidity level for a Norfolk Island pine would be above 50%, which is difficult to achieve in homes, especially in winter. Grouping it with other plants may help increase humidity a little. Using a humidifier or growing Norfolk Island pines in a greenhouse would be ideal.

— Soil and repotting: Experts recommend amending potting soil with a small percentage of sand and peat moss for Norfolk Island pines. Plants should be repotted every three or four years when roots become visible above the soil surface.

Are Norfolk Island pines prone to problems?

Norfolk Island pines are not especially plagued by pests but may become unsightly for other reasons. I have had issues with Norfolk Island pines developing a permanent bend in the trunk; this can be avoided by rotating the plant weekly. Browning and dropping lower branches are also common problems. This may be caused by low humidity; regular watering can help stave this off. Excess fertilizer can also cause branches to drop.

Can I decorate my Norfolk Island pine?

Yes! You may have bought or received the plant decorated for the winter holidays. Since the branches are soft, use lightweight ornaments. If you decorate with lights, use a string of LEDs, which do not generate heat.

Penn State Master Gardeners of Lancaster County are still here in winter to answer your garden questions (even about houseplants). Contact us at LancasterMG@psu.edu or by phone: 717-394-6851.

Lois Miklas is a Penn State Master Gardener for Lancaster County, and a former area Master Gardener coordinator.

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