Phillip Miller first described the Virginia Pine (Pinus Virginiana) in 1768 as a hearty, lush, and attractive evergreen form. It is relatively easy to care for and can make great material for a Christmas tree if you’re so inclined. But the best way to enjoy this wholly North American species of tree is to use them in your landscaping. In so doing, you’ll enjoy many years of shade, shelter from wind, and enhanced air quality.
If you plan to use Virginia Pine seedlings in your landscaping, there are several things to keep in mind for the best results.
How to Use Virginia Pine Seedlings in Your Landscaping
The Virginia Pine can be a great asset to any property if carefully arranged and cared for.
Wind Break
Planning a natural windbreak using Virginia Pine seedlings is an excellent use of the natural features of this tree. Their dense eaves make an excellent windbreak when they grow to full size, and they can even help cut debris out of incoming gusts of wind. Keep in mind is they should be placed at least 10 feet apart if you do not plan to keep them well-pruned and shaped.
Shade Trees
While it will take a considerable amount of time before a Virginia Pine will make a good shade tree, it eventually will. Future generations will thank you for the time and care you put into these trees.
Feature Use
A single Virginia pine can be an excellent centerpiece in a large garden or yard. They can be perfect for filling out your skyline or adding depth to your outdoor areas. In their early stages, they can fill out smaller areas in groups, but they should be transplanted to a larger area before they become too big to handle.
How to Care for Virginia Pine Seedlings
While these hardy trees may seem invulnerable to the elements, it can be easy to make mistakes that your trees will pay for sooner or later.
Light
Virginia Pines prefer ample light but can do well in partial light. Their adaptability is their greatest strength.
Soil & Spacing
While these trees can adapt to almost all conditions, young trees should be placed in well-draining soil. They do best in low to neutral pH but can survive even under sterile conditions.
Water
Young trees, especially saplings, need to be well watered, but they should not sit in standing water. Once they are established, they can survive on rainwater only.
Heat & Humidity
These trees will do well in almost any climate. But seedlings should be protected from frost if possible.
Fertilizer
You will not need to fertilize the soil for your Virginia Pines. They will grow well even in poor soil.
Pruning & Shaping
Virginia Pines are a joy to prune and shape. They may appear scraggly if left alone, which is fine in wilder areas. If you choose to prune your pine, do it at least once a year to maintain the desired shape, as they have multiple growing seasons.
Growing Virginia Pine seedlings will give you many years of enjoyment and satisfaction. With persistence, you might even find yourself selling Christmas trees to families in the neighborhood.
