White pine is fast growing and long lived. Second-growth white pine trees can be limby, and these limbs often persist on the bole for up to 25 years after the tree dies. Jack pine provides food and shelter for a variety of wildlife. Jack pine stands provide habitat for the endangered Kirtland's warbler. Jack, red, and white pines are used for posts, poles, sawtimber, and pulpwood.
Red pine is planted for erosion control, wind or snow breaks, and scenic values.
Jack, red, and white pines are susceptible to a variety of insects and diseases. Red pine plantations can be destroyed by the canker Gremmenlella abietina. Severe drought can kill jack pine seedlings. Summer droughts or cold autumn temperatures may prevent red pine seed germination.