Pinus Nigra

Just a quick one , would you treat Pinus Nigra the same as any other European two needle pine ?

Hi Tim

Pretty much. Right now the needle length of course looks somewhat out of balance because of the overall size of the tree. Personally...and it is just my opinion, the Austrian Pine does not lend itself to a small sized tree, having so said some Black Pines have been made to look exceptionally authentic as small bonsai.

I'm probably not the right person to respond - as all of my Pines are rather large, so working on a two needle reduction takes time but is very worthwhile. A Scots I have been working on for three years at around 26" in height (my smallest) is now showing average needle length smaller than most five needle varieties so it is possible.

If twere me...I'd go with open ground and start on some shaping whilst there, this is however based on teh fact I prefer larger trees.

Good luck

Mike