Q: How do I maintain the "pom pom" shape of this plant?
A: The key to maintaining the pom pom shape is to prune the new growth, called "candles," in late spring or early summer . When the new candles have fully elongated but before the needles have expanded, cut them back by about one-half to two-thirds . This will force the plant to branch and create a denser, more compact pom pom. Do not cut into old, brown, non-needled wood.

Q: How large does a Pom Pom Scotch Pine get?
A: At the time of sale, it is typically 4-6 feet tall . If the pom pom pruning is maintained, it will stay relatively compact. However, if left unpruned, it will slowly revert to its natural tree form and can eventually reach 8-10 feet or more over many decades.

Q: How much sun does it need?
A: It requires full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily) to maintain its dense, compact growth habit and its best blue-green needle color . In too much shade, the pom poms will become loose, open, and leggy.

Q: Is it deer resistant?
A: Yes, pines are generally resistant to deer browsing . Deer typically prefer other food sources over the tough, resinous needles of pines. This makes it a good choice for gardens with deer pressure.

Q: How cold hardy is it?
A: It is extremely cold-hardy, thriving in USDA zones 2-7 . It can withstand harsh winter conditions, including heavy snow and ice, and is a great choice for northern gardens.

Q: Can it be grown in a container?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a large container for a number of years . Its slow growth and manageable size make it a popular choice for patio and entryway containers. Use a large pot with excellent drainage and a well-draining potting mix. Container plants will need more frequent watering than those in the ground, but still require the soil to dry out between waterings.