Norfolk Island pine

Grow as a containerised tree under glass in areas liable to frost. The plant may be placed outside in a sheltered, sunny position during the summer and brought under glass once more in the autumn. In containers, use a well drained loam-based potting soil (JI No2) with extra perlite. Water freely during the growing season, March to September and keep the compost just moist during the winter. Apply a balanced fertiliser every two weeks during the growing season, but withhold fertiliser during the winter months

Pruning group 1; little or no pruning is required, as this can permanently spoil the shape of the tree

Propagate by seed sown in seedbed as soon as ripe; take cuttings of vertical shoot tips in midsummer and root in a cold frame; cuttings of horizontal side branches will not form an upright tree

Generally pest free

Honey fungus may be a problem