Click below to listen to my 2 min. Garden Bite radio show/podcast: Norfolk Pine – the tropical Christmas tree
I’ve talked about evergreens and fresh Christmas trees so far this week, how about a Tropical Tree!
Perfect for small places, in fact I had one in my own home a couple of years ago, this little darling fits well in apartments or any space you have light. It’s the Norfolk Pine.
I know many of you have seen this houseplant but maybe don’t know where it actually comes from and the fact that it’s not a pine at all!
Native to Norfolk Island, a small island between New Zealand and New Caledonia, it can grow to nearly 200 ft in it’s natural habitat!
Here, in our northern climes, the Norfolk Pine has been used as a houseplant for decades. Most typically they’re given or purchased as a holiday plant and often tossed after the holidays.
But there’s a reason not to let them go! With a little TLC, they can grow happily in your home for years to come. I had one that was a gift to my brother years ago. When he passed away, I took it home and it grew to 5 ft tall.
Norfolk Pine grow best in soil that is well draining since their natural habitat is sandy, rocky shores. Give them as much light as possible. Don’t give them any fertilizer in winter, these plants are in a “rest period”.
Always check the soil by hand before watering your plant. Let the soil dry slightly about an inch deep, and then water thoroughly, until water runs out the container’s drainage holes. Give the pot a quarter turn every time you water to encourage even growth and symmetry.
If your home’s humidity runs below 50 percent, (which it does for us in the winter, your plant will appreciate a boost. Mist it regularly using a spray bottle, or place a pebble-filled saucer beneath it. Add water to the saucer, but keep the water level below the top of the pebbles, so the bottom of the pot stays dry. A home humidifier works well, too. Here’s more information on their care from Pennington. This is NOT an endorsement for them.
Unfortunately my 2020 “Christmas Tree” did NOT make it. I don’t have enough light in my living room and not enough humidity.
