Pruning pines is usually unnecessary, except to remove dead or broken branches. Mulching around old and new pine trees is beneficial since it reduces water stress and weeds. For more information on mulching and mulch materials, refer to HGIC 1604, Mulching . When fertilizing newly planted trees, use slow- release fertilizers. Care should be taken if quick- release fertilizers are used since roots of young trees are sensitive to overfertilizing.
Pines planted around homes can develop several problems.
One of the most serious problems is fusiform rust. This fungal disease causes weak places in the trunk, making the tree more likely to break in windstorms. Fusiform swellings look like indentations on the trunk. Sometimes a boring insect gets in these indentations. As it bores, pine pitch, a sticky material, oozes out.