Norfolk Island pine care: watering, light and repotting
Also called araucaria, norfolk pine · Araucaria heterophylla · Araucariaceae family
12 d in winter
How often to water the Norfolk Island pine?
Allow about 7 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 12 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Likes cool rooms and light. Turn the pot every week so it grows straight; a branch that drops won't grow back.
Misting every 5 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The Norfolk Island pine likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 3 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 3–6 ft (1–2 m).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Lower branches drying
Cause: Air too warm and dry. What to do: Keep it away from heating and mist it.
Tree leaning
Cause: Light from one side only. What to do: Give the pot a quarter turn every week.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the Norfolk Island pine?
About every 7 days in spring and summer, and every 12 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the Norfolk Island pine?
The Norfolk Island pine likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the Norfolk Island pine?
Yes, misting every 5 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the Norfolk Island pine?
Every 3 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the Norfolk Island pine safe?
The Norfolk Island pine is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. A pet that eats a lot of it may still vomit, so it's best not to let it nibble.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the Norfolk Island pine needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.