How big does Pinus mugo get?
The Mugo pine can grow as a shorter dense multi-stem shrub or a tree up to 25 feet tall and wide. There are many dwarf varieties and cultivars available that average 2 to 5 feet tall with an outward spread. Dwarf Mugo Pine grows slowly in our area to about 2-3′ tall by 3-4′ wide, at a rate of only 3-4 a year. Plant in sun to very light shade. Plants are very drought-tolerant after their first year in the garden.The mugo pine is a shrub to small tree and ranges in size, it can grow to 15′ to 20′ tall and 25′ to 30 ft wide. Its bark is gray-brown in color and has a scaly texture. Its needles are arranged in bundles of two and are stiff and slightly curved.Plants are variable in growth rate, and most of the garden forms are selections of Pinus mugo var. Cones are to 2 inches long and held tightly against the branches. Mugo pine owes its discovery by the horticultural world to two unrelated events.Mugo pine propagates well from semi-hardwood cuttings taken from healthy, vigorous plants, ensuring a higher success rate. Sterilize propagation tools before use to prevent the spread of diseases to mugo pine.Mugo pine trees can be grown outdoors in partial shade to full sun. When indoors they will do well in bright light, but can also tolerate diffused light from a southern facing window.
Where does Pinus mugo grow best?
Mugo Pines are very cold hardy and thrive in growing zones 2 to 7. Plant your Mugo Pine in full to part sun for best results. While it prefers moist, well-drained loam soil the Mugo Pine is adaptable to most well-drained soils. Instead, prune mugo pine in spring and only trim the new growth. Tender new growth on mugo pines appears as “candles” on the branch tips. To keep the mugo pine from getting too tall, cut the mugo pine candles in half in springtime.Pruning a pine is something that can be done one time annually by pruning the candles to a desired length. Candles on a pine are the tender upright shoots that emerge from the ends of the branches in spring. The candles are typically in bunches with one taller central candle surrounded by several shorter candles.Columnar Mugo Pine is a great alternative to larger columnar evergreens like junipers or cedars in windy, dry regions. Its compact size makes it perfect for rock gardens, urban landscapes, and small spaces. Lifespan: Can live 50+ years with proper care.Plant mugo pine in spring or fall in a location that has full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Amend the soil with organic matter and a couple buckets of gravel if it needs increased drainage. Balled and burlapped plants should have as much of the burlap and wire basket removed as possible.
What is the common name for Pinus mugo?
Pinus mugo, commonly called mugo pine or Swiss mountain pine, is a variable species that is most often seen as a bushy, multi-stemmed shrub or broad-rounded small tree to 15-20′ tall. Mature plants typically exhibit a dense habit, usually growing wider than tall. The mugo pine, Pinus mugo ‘Mughus’, or mountain pine Like the Japanese black pine, it is also a two-needle pine, i. But they are naturally small, which is an advantage when it comes to making them a bonsai.Pinus mugo ‘Humpy’ is one of the best Pinus mugo varieties available. Short dark green needles and a low spreading habit, taking on a dense, rounded shape, give this delightful little conifer a well-furnished look.
What are the common Pinus mugo problems?
Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Pine needle scale, sawflies, and moths and borers may affect the Mugo pine. It is also susceptible to tip blight, rust, and rot. This tree is susceptible to wind damage. Small problems might go unnoticed but a larger infestation of pests, a disease, or some other health concern can start to show up with various symptoms. Signs of an unhealthy pine tree include: Mass needle discoloration, such as turning gray, yellow, or brown. Mushroom growth around the trunk.
What are common mugo pine problems?
Pests and diseases can severely affect the vitality of Mugo pine. Common pests include aphids and spider mites, which suck sap and weaken the plant. The presence of disease, often fungal in nature such as rust or blight, further complicates the plant’s health. The root systems of pine trees vary based on the species and soil type. While most pine species have deep taproots, mugo pines don’t. And larger species, such as a 100- to 150-foot white pine, can have more extensive roots compared to dwarf varieties.Dwarf Mugo Pine grows slowly in our area to about 2-3′ tall by 3-4′ wide, at a rate of only 3-4 a year. Plant in sun to very light shade. Plants are very drought-tolerant after their first year in the garden.