Preserving Our Pitch Pines
Pitch Pine, 'pinus rigida', is one of the dominant tree species on Cape Cod. It is a hardy drought-tolerant, fire-adapted tree that can grow well in dry, sandy, and barren soils. Although it is notably resistant to fire, injury, deer, and salt, it has become susceptible to boring insects such as 'Black Turpentine' and 'Southern Pine' beetles.
(Read about Black Turpentine Beetle)
Aside from growing successfully across the Cape, Pitch Pines tend to have a beautiful shape—especially when cared for over time. Mid-winter seeds help feed squirrels and birds while deer and rabbits enjoy early sprouts and seedlings.
Preserving our pitch pines begins with proper pruning. Mindful removal of dead, broken, and interfering limbs increases the beauty of the tree while also allowing the canopy to breathe and better withstand strong winds and snow load. Also, tip-reduction (cutting small amounts off the ends of the limbs) reduces weight without removing massive sections from the tree.
Conversely, improper pruning cuts (e.g. lopping off large lower limbs) can create sizeable wounds, attract boring insects, and affect the overall balance, stability, and future health of the tree.
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