How to Grow a Pinus Pinea

Site Italian stone pines in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. They're more compact and productive in full sun.

Test the soil pH before planting stone pines. They grow best in soil that's acidic to slightly alkaline. If the pH is over 7.5, ask your local extension service or garden center to recommend additives to lower the pH. The type of soil amendment needed will depend on your location and soil structure.

Space multiple trees at least 30 feet apart. Stone pines are unusual in that they grow nearly as wide as they do tall. In home landscapes, they average 35 to 50 feet tall and 30 to 45 feet wide.

Water newly planted Italian stone pines often enough during their first season to keep the soil moist but not soggy, to encourage good root growth. The amount of water needed will depend on the weather and your soil; keep the soil moist to a depth of 12 inches. After the trees are well established, supplemental watering is needed only during extended drought or hot, windy weather.

Feed your stone pines in early spring with a fertilizer specially formulated for conifers. The amount to apply will depend on the product chosen; always follow package directions carefully for the correct dose. Some products call for a second feeding in the fall.

Inspect your trees often for signs of pests and diseases. Stone pines are resistant to verticillium wilt, a common pine disease, but can be infested by insects such as wooly adelgids and bagworms. If found, ask your garden center for an insecticide approved for use on pines in your state.

Harvest the mature cones and lay them on a tray or screen in direct sun to encourage the scales to open and expose the seeds. The seeds can be eaten raw or roasted like peanuts. If you expect to harvest the seeds from your tree, always use insecticides that are safe for food crops.