Most people get upset when the needles turn yellow and begin dropping off. In the fall, the dropping of interior needles is natural. But if yellowing occurs, have the tree checked by an expert. For more information on diseases and insects of pine trees, refer to HGIC 2008, Pine Diseases , and HGIC 2009, Pine Insects . The cones are 6 to 10 inches long and a dull brown.
Young plants look like fountains of grass.
Longleaf pine grows best on well-drained, sandy, acidic soils that are low in organic matter. Longleaf pine is less susceptible than other Southern pines to bark beetles and other insect pests. Fusiform rust is not a serious problem. This species is not tolerant of high winds and drought. It can grow more than 2 feet per year.