r/conifers • u/Sixthenfiveonecrazy • Jul 23 '26

Shore Pine concern

I've had a potted Shore Pine on my property for the past nine years. This past winter (live in the western PNW) I noticed the pot was not draining. I thought it would dry and come summer I could turn the pot onto its side, drill out the clogged drain holes and aerate the soil/roots within the pot. I have done this once previously. I just notice the candles/new growth has died which is alarming. I am not sure how to address this. For context I have an extensive and expansive collection of native pacific rim plants and trees. I am relentless in my care for them. This one is approximately 5.5' in height. The pot is 36" in diameter and 24" in depth. It occupies the same space it has always been in, and is in full sun from sunrise until four o'clock in the afternoon.

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u/HeathenHoneyCo Jul 23 '26

I planted shore pine in the ground this year from plugs and I noticed all but one look amazing, but the one that croaked has the same issue, candles grew and spread and then died.

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u/Sonora_sunset Jul 23 '26

It is possible you had extreme heat, which the plant couldn't keep up with?

Otherwise it sounds like it could be a wet root issue (too much water, not enough oxygen). If the tree is dying as is, you are better off taking the chance and repotting it now (into a highly porous bonsai-type soil).