This species is hardy from zone 2 to 8, but does not grow well in zone 8. It will grow in a variety of soils, as long as they are well-drained, but prefers acid soils. This species will tolerate poor, dry sites but requires full sun.
Pines are subject to a number of fungal diseases and insect pests.
Scots pine is particularly susceptible to Diplodia tip blight, Dothistroma needle cast and pine wilt nematode. The Scots pine is the most widely distributed pine in the world and was one of the first to be introduced to North America. It occurs in most of northern Europe and Asia, from Scotland on the west to Siberia in the east. It is planted throughout Iowa.