December 19, 2024 In Christmas, Feature, featured, Houseplants, Seasonal

How to Care for Christmas Plants After the Holidays

What to Do With Your Christmas Plants After the Holidays

Ah, the holidays are over, and the decorations are packed away—but what about your festive plants? Those poinsettias, Christmas cacti, and amaryllises can keep thriving (and even rebloom) with a little post-holiday care. Instead of tossing them out, let’s show these beauties some love and extend their magic into the new year. Don’t have your holiday plants yet? No worries, shop them here!

Poinsettia: Beyond the Red and Green Glow

Poinsettias are famous for their bold, colorful bracts (often mistaken for flowers), but they don’t have to be a one-season wonder. Here’s how to keep them going:

After the Holidays: Place your poinsettia in a bright, sunny spot away from drafts, heating vents, or cold windows. Water it when the top inch of soil feels dry, but don’t let it sit in water—good drainage is key.
As Spring Approaches: Around March or April, cut back the stems to about 4–6 inches. Don’t panic—it’ll grow back fuller! Keep watering and fertilize once a month with an all-purpose houseplant fertilizer.
Reblooming Challenge: Want it to turn red again? Starting in September, give your poinsettia 14–16 hours of complete darkness each day (a dark closet works well) and bright light during the day. Do this for about 8 weeks, and voilà—holiday colors return!

Christmas Cactus: A Gift That Keeps on Giving

Christmas cacti are hardy, low-maintenance plants that can bloom year after year with proper care.

Post-Holiday Care: Keep your Christmas cactus in a spot with bright, indirect light and water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. These plants enjoy a bit more humidity, so placing them near a humidifier or on a pebble tray will keep them happy!
Year-Round Maintenance: After the blooms fade, trim back any leggy growth to keep the plant tidy. Feed it monthly during the growing season (spring through summer) with a cactus fertilizer or diluted houseplant food.
Reblooming Tips: To trigger new buds, Christmas cacti need cooler temperatures (50–55°F) and 12–14 hours of darkness each night for about 6 weeks in the fall. Once you see buds forming, move it back to its usual spot and resume regular care.

Amaryllis: The Star of the Show

Amaryllis bulbs produce stunning, trumpet-shaped flowers that steal the spotlight during the holidays. With a little effort, they can bloom again next year.

After the Blooms Fade: Once the flowers wilt, cut the stalk down to about 1 inch above the bulb, but leave the leaves intact. These leaves are essential for photosynthesis, which feeds the bulb for future blooms.
Summer Vacation: In spring or summer, you can move your amaryllis outdoors to a sunny spot (after the risk of frost is gone). Keep watering and fertilizing every few weeks to help the bulb recharge.
Reblooming Prep: In late summer or early fall, bring the bulb back indoors and let it rest in a cool, dark place for 8–10 weeks. Stop watering during this dormancy period. After the rest, repot the bulb, start watering, and wait for new growth to signal it’s gearing up to bloom again.

Paperwhites: One-Time Wonders (But Worth It!)

Paperwhites are delightful and fragrant holiday blooms, but they’re typically one-and-done when grown indoors. Once the flowers fade:

After Bloom Care: Allow the foliage to die back naturally, which helps the bulb store energy.
Outdoor Options: In warm climates (zones 8–11), you can plant them in the garden for future blooms. Otherwise, compost the bulbs—they rarely rebloom indoors.

Cyclamen: A Cool-Weather Superstar

Cyclamen are known for their vibrant flowers and heart-shaped leaves, and with the right care, they can bloom for months!

Post-Holiday Care: Keep your cyclamen in a cool spot (60–65°F) with bright, indirect light. Water when the soil feels dry, but avoid letting water sit on the leaves or crown.
Summer Dormancy: When blooming slows down, don’t worry! Cyclamen often go dormant in summer. Stop watering and let the foliage yellow and die back naturally.
Reblooming: Once fall rolls around, repot the tuber, start watering again, and watch for new growth—your cyclamen is ready for another season of beauty!

With a little extra care, your holiday plants can bring beauty and joy for years to come. It’s like carrying a little bit of Christmas spirit with you into the new year! So, don’t be too quick to part with these seasonal treasures—give them the love they deserve, and they’ll reward you with blooms and greenery season after season.

Got any questions about your holiday plants? Feel free to ask our experts at any of our 7 locations!

Shop Online Here!

Potted Christmas Tree Decor and Care Tips

November 26, 2024 In Christmas, Feature, featured, info-library, Seasonal

Bringing the Outdoors In: Caring for Potted Christmas Trees This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time to embrace tradition, and what better way to celebrate than by incorporating a live, potted Christmas tree into your home decor? A potted or balled-and-burlapped (B&B) Christmas tree not only adds a festive touch but also offers the promise of a long-term addition to your outdoor landscape. By following some essential care tips, you can enjoy your tree indoors and then plant it outside to thrive for years to come.

Why Choose a Potted or Balled & Burlapped (B&B) Christmas Tree?

Live Christmas trees are a sustainable and rewarding choice. With proper care, they can continue to grow and provide beauty long after the holiday season. At Mahoney’s, we offer a beautiful selection of live trees including:

– Blue Spruce: Known for its striking silvery-blue needles and sturdy branches.
– Nordmann Fir: A popular choice for its soft, dark green needles and excellent needle retention.
– Alberta Spruce: A smaller, slow-growing variety perfect for compact spaces.

Sizes range from smaller Alberta Spruce in pots to larger 6 to 7-foot Blue Spruce specimens.

Alberta Spruce at Mahoney’s in Winchester, MA.

Care Guidelines for Your Potted or B&B Christmas Tree

To ensure your tree thrives both indoors and outdoors, follow these essential care tips:

Indoor Timeframe

– Limit the time your potted or B&B tree spends indoors to 8 to 10 days maximum. Extended exposure to warm indoor conditions can harm the tree’s health by disrupting its dormancy.

Outdoor Storage

– When not displayed indoors, store your tree in a cold outdoor environment to maintain its dormancy. Ensure the root ball or pot remains moist but not waterlogged.

Transitioning Outdoors

– After the holidays, transition your tree gradually back to outdoor conditions. Avoid moving it directly from a warm indoor space (e.g., 70°F) to freezing temperatures (e.g., 30°F at night). Place it in a sheltered, cooler location like a garage or unheated porch for a few days before moving it outdoors.

Planting Your Tree

Planting your tree in the ground after the holidays ensures its long-term survival. Keep these considerations in mind:

Plan Ahead

– If you plan to plant your tree, dig the planting hole in November or early December while the ground is still workable. Cover the hole with mulch or straw to prevent it from freezing.

Avoid Interrupting Dormancy

– Trees brought indoors and outdoors repeatedly can suffer from interrupted dormancy, which is often fatal. Limit this movement as much as possible.

A Sustainable Holiday Tradition

Choosing a live tree for Christmas is a beautiful way to celebrate the season sustainably. With thoughtful care and planning, your potted or B&B Christmas tree can transition from a festive centerpiece to a cherished part of your outdoor landscape. If you have questions or need assistance, visit us at any of our 7 locations, and our knowledgeable staff will be delighted to help you make your holidays merry and bright!

November 21, 2024 In Christmas, info-library

Your Lifelike Christmas Tree: Assembly, Care and Storage

Bringing out your lifelike Christmas tree is the first step to setting a festive mood for the season. With lush, realistic branches and twinkling lights, a lifelike tree offers all the charm of the holiday season without the mess. Here’s how to make assembling, caring for, and storing your tree a breeze so you can enjoy its beauty for years to come!

lifelike christmas tree

Assembling Your Lifelike Christmas Tree

Unpacking and setting up your tree can be enjoyable, especially with these easy steps:

Find All Your Pieces: Start by locating the tree’s base, screws, and sections labeled A, B, and C. You’ll feel ready to build as you arrange everything in order!
Set Up the Stand: Thread the screws into the stand halfway—this helps make inserting the tree stable. Once section C is placed in the stand, tighten those screws for a secure fit.
Fluff and Shape: Plug in the power cord, and let the fun begin! Fluffing brings your tree to life, so take your time with each branch. Start from the inside and work out, adjusting each branch up, down, and sideways to fill any gaps and create a full, natural look.
Build Up with Section B: Insert section B, letting the trunk automatically connect the lights. Fluff again, continuing to shape each branch for a balanced, lush look. Finally, do the same for section A.
Enjoy the Lights: With multiple lighting programs, you can experiment with fades, twinkles, and festive flashes that add sparkle to your tree.

Caring for Your Tree During the Holidays

Maintaining your tree’s appearance is simple and ensures it stays lovely all season long:

Regular Dusting: Gently dust the branches with a feather duster or soft cloth, which keeps the greenery looking fresh and vibrant.
Mind the Ornaments: Be mindful not to overload branches with heavy ornaments, which can weigh them down or disrupt the lighting connections.
Light Maintenance: Periodically check your tree’s lights to make sure connections are secure, and replace any bulbs that may have dimmed or gone out.

Storing Your Tree Safely After the Season

With a bit of care, you’ll have your tree neatly stored and ready for future holiday cheer.

Turn Off and Disassemble: Make sure to unplug the tree, then carefully remove sections A and B. Loosen screws to detach section C from the stand.
Protect Electrical Parts: Use the included caps to protect electrical connectors and avoid damage in storage.
Choose Your Storage Solution: Ideally, use a designated tree storage bag for protection. If you don’t have one, the original box or large plastic bags work too. Place two tree sections in the box and the third in a bag for a snug fit.
Remove Batteries: Avoid corrosion by taking the batteries out of your remote.
Secure Accessories: Use a twist tie or zip tie to attach the remote and any other small items to the stand, so everything stays together.
Pack Up Neatly: Place the stand at the bottom of your storage bag, then stack the tree sections from largest to smallest. To save space, alternate the branches in opposite directions with connectors facing outward.

Now, your tree is tucked away safely, ready for next year! A little extra care in assembling, maintaining, and storing your lifelike Christmas tree means it will sparkle and shine for many holidays to come. And of course, if you have any questions feel free to reach out to us or come visit us at any one of our 7 locations! Happy decorating!

November 20, 2024 In Christmas

Illuminate Your Holidays: The Light Shop at Mahoney’s

THE LIGHT SHOP AT MAHONEY’S

We believe you can never underestimate the power of lighting. Whether it’s battery-operated invisilites on your wreath, decorative lit figurines like reindeer and stars, or window candles— the short winter days cry out for beautiful illumination to make your spirits bright. Check out our selection of traditional incandescent lighting, LED, novelty and battery-operated choices.

scroll to learn more

LED LIGHTING ^

Back by popular demand are our S4 LED lights. Using some of the most advanced lighting technology, S4 lights are long lasting, amazingly energy efficient, and constructed to last for years to come— both indoors and out! Available in multiple colors and styles including a lovely warm white, red, amber, blue and multi. Also consider the Caribbean, Candy Cane and Traditional theme sets. Spectacular!

BATTERY OPERATED INVISILITES ^

Perhaps our favorite holiday accessory. Tiny LED lights are fused onto a flexible almost invisibly thin wire, that creates a soft glow just about anywhere you desire! Use on your tabletop amongst greens, in a garland, on a wreath, in lanterns, and even on a tiny tree. They are battery operated, so you can place them anywhere, and because the lights are waterproof, you can use them indoors or out. You can even submerge them in water. Watch; you’ll buy them for the holiday but use them all year long!

TRADITIONAL INCANDESCENT LIGHTING^

For those who prefer incandescent string lights, we carry premium lighting that is visibly superior to what you’ll find in the big box stores. In clean whites, and colorful themed sets, there’s something for everyone! Our Super-Bright Ultimate white lights are spaced at 3” to 5” intervals that make the 30” string longer than most, and easier to use when lighting wreaths, garlands and trees. Fitted with light locks, the bulbs do not fall out, and (you’ll love this) unlike old technology, the string stays lit should one or more bulbs fail. Up to 5 sets can safely be connected together.

WINDOW CANDLES^

We’ve searched high and low for the perfect window candle, and we found it! Introducing our LED cordless candles with a unique bulb that glows brighter on the “street side” of the candle, softer on the inside for a subtle illumination. A set-and-forget timer turns candle on for 6 hours, off for 18 hours, all powered by 4 AA batteries! Hurry, we suspect these will sell out early and quantities are limited!

OUTDOOR FIGURINES^

Made of heavy-duty acrylic molded for beautiful realism, our outdoor figurines are a great addition to any holiday landscape. Find stars, reindeer, snowmen and more! Check out our lit spheres too!

LIT SPHERES & NOVELTY LIGHTING ^

From fun indoor/outdoor lit spheres to fun novelty light sets, our selections can enhance any holiday display.

Come check out the Light Shop at Mahoney’s at any of our 7 locations or our online shop!

Shop Holiday Lights Here!

November 20, 2024 In Christmas, Feature, featured, info-library

Cyclamen Care: How to Keep Them Happy and Healthy

Cyclamen plants are a real treat for anyone who loves a pop of color during the cooler months. With their vibrant, butterfly-like flowers in shades of pink, red, white, and purple, they can really brighten up a room or garden when most other plants are going dormant. Plus, their unique heart-shaped leaves with silvery patterns add extra charm. But despite their delicate appearance, cyclamen are tougher than they look—as long as you know a few key care tips!

What is Cyclamen?

Cyclamen is a genus of plants that come from Mediterranean regions, meaning they love cool weather and have adapted to survive through hot summers. The most commonly grown type is Cyclamen persicum, which is what you’ll usually find in garden centers, especially around fall and winter.

These beauties are known for their unusual growth habits: they’re actually dormant in summer and start perking up when temperatures drop. So if you notice your cyclamen fading in late spring, don’t worry—it’s just going to sleep for a bit!

How to Care for Your Cyclamen

Here’s everything you need to know to keep your cyclamen thriving:

1. Light

Cyclamen love bright, indirect light. If you’re growing them indoors, place them near a window where they can get plenty of light but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. In a garden, they do well in partial shade. Think of their natural habitat—they’re used to growing in the dappled light under trees, so try to mimic that.

2. Temperature

This is one of the most important aspects of cyclamen care. These plants prefer cooler temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 65°F (10°C to 18°C). They don’t do well in hot environments, so keep them away from heating vents, radiators, or direct sun during hot spells. If your home is warmer, try moving them to a cooler room, like a porch or an unheated hallway, especially at night.

3. Watering

Cyclamen are a little picky about water, but once you get the hang of it, it’s easy! The best way to water is from the bottom. Place the pot in a shallow dish of water and let the plant soak for about 20-30 minutes. This method helps prevent water from sitting on the tuber (the swollen root structure) and leaves, which can lead to rot.

Water when the soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to let it dry out completely. During their active growing period (fall to spring), they’ll need more water. In summer, when they’re dormant, ease off the watering—just give them a little sip occasionally.

4. Humidity

Cyclamen like a bit of humidity, but not too much. If the air in your home is very dry, especially in winter, place a shallow dish of water nearby to create some humidity. You can also mist the air around the plant, but avoid misting directly onto the plant itself, as wet leaves can invite disease.

5. Fertilizer

During the growing season (fall to spring), feeding your cyclamen every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer will keep them healthy and encourage more blooms. Just be sure to dilute the fertilizer to half the strength recommended on the package to avoid overfeeding.

6. Repotting and Dormancy

Cyclamen grow from tubers, which swell over time. If you notice your plant is getting crowded in its pot, it’s time to repot—ideally in the fall, just before the growing season kicks off. Use a well-draining potting mix to help prevent root rot, and make sure the tuber sits just above the soil surface.

As for dormancy, don’t panic if your cyclamen starts to look a little sad in late spring! It’s perfectly normal for the plant to go into a resting phase during the warmer months. The leaves will yellow and die back, but the tuber will still be alive. At this point, stop fertilizing and reduce watering. You can even move the plant to a cool, dark spot. Once fall rolls around again, new leaves will start to grow, and you can resume regular care.

Common Cyclamen Problems (And How to Fix Them)

Like any plant, cyclamen can run into a few issues, but most are easy to fix:

Yellowing leaves: This is often a sign of overwatering or that the plant is too warm. Make sure you’re letting the soil dry out between waterings and move the plant to a cooler spot.
No flowers: Cyclamen need cool temperatures to bloom. If you’re not seeing any flowers, try moving it to a cooler location and check if it’s getting enough indirect light.
Drooping leaves and flowers: If the plant is wilting, it could be thirsty. Check the soil, and if it’s dry, give it a good soak from the bottom.

Bonus Tip: Keeping Cyclamen Year After Year

Cyclamen are often treated as temporary plants, but with the right care, you can enjoy them year after year! After they finish blooming and go dormant in the summer, resist the urge to toss them. Just follow the dormancy care tips above, and your cyclamen will reward you with another round of beautiful blooms when the weather cools down again.

cyclamen care

With a little attention to their unique needs, cyclamen plants are not only beautiful but also relatively easy to care for. Just remember: cool temperatures, bright indirect light, and a balanced watering routine are key to keeping your cyclamen happy. Come into any of our 7 locations and pick up one for yourself! Happy gardening! 🌸

November 11, 2024 In Christmas, Feature, featured, info-library

Christmas Plants: How to Keep Your Holiday Greens Happy

Nothing brings the holiday spirit quite like the beauty of Christmas plants. From the vibrant reds of poinsettias to the delicate blooms of Christmas cactus and the graceful green branches of Norfolk Island pine, these plants add warmth, charm, and cheer to any home. Here’s a guide on caring for these festive favorites, so they stay healthy and beautiful throughout the season and beyond.

christmas plants poinsettia

Poinsettias: The Classic Christmas Flower

Poinsettias are a holiday favorite, known for their striking red leaves (called bracts) and lush green foliage. They’re perfect for adding a splash of color to any room!

How to Care for Your Poinsettia:

Light: Place your poinsettia in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight. A window with morning sun is ideal.
Watering: Water when the top two inches of soil is dry. Allow water to drain away to avoid soggy roots, which poinsettias don’t like.
Temperature: Keep your plant in a warm room, ideally around 65-75°F, and away from cold drafts or direct heat sources.
Pet & Child Safety: Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias aren’t as toxic as once thought. While not recommended for snacking, they’re generally safe around pets and children, though they may cause mild discomfort if ingested.

Fun Fact: Poinsettias are native to Mexico, and their original bright red color has been joined by new varieties, including whites, pinks, and even speckled designs.

Christmas Cactus: The Blooming Winter Wonder

Known for its beautiful, cascading blooms that appear during the winter months, the Christmas cactus is a unique holiday choice. Its vibrant flowers add a pop of color during a time when most other plants are dormant.

How to Care for Your Christmas Cactus:

Light: Place it in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn its leaves.
Watering: Water when the soil is dry to the touch. Over-watering can cause root rot, so be mindful to let the soil dry a bit between waterings.
Encouraging Blooms: For the best chance of winter blooms, reduce the plant’s light exposure in the fall (around October) and place it in a cooler room at night. These conditions help trigger flowering just in time for Christmas.

Tip: The Christmas cactus is easy to share! You can propagate it from cuttings, making it a perfect gift for friends and family during the holiday season.

Norfolk Island Pine: A Mini Christmas Tree

With its soft, needle-like branches, the Norfolk Island pine is a popular alternative for those who want a mini Christmas tree. It’s perfect for decorating with small ornaments and string lights, bringing a festive touch to even the coziest spaces.

How to Care for Your Norfolk Island Pine (you can also check out our blogpost on the topic for more detail!):

Light: Norfolk Island pines need bright, indirect light. A well-lit room is ideal.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top layer begins to feel dry, and make sure your pot has good drainage.
Humidity: These pines love humidity! If your home tends to be dry during winter, especially with indoor heating, mist the plant regularly or place a humidifier nearby to keep it thriving.

Decorating Tip: Since Norfolk pines are slow-growing, you can keep and enjoy them for many holiday seasons to come. Add lightweight ornaments to avoid weighing down the branches, and enjoy your own miniature tree.

Cyclamen: The Winter Bloomer

Cyclamen plants are known for their delicate, butterfly-like blooms in shades of pink, red, white, and purple. With their unique marbled leaves, cyclamen make a beautiful addition to holiday decor, bringing a fresh and cheerful look to any indoor space.

How to Care for Your Cyclamen:

Light: Place cyclamen in bright, indirect light, but avoid direct sunlight as it can be too intense for their delicate blooms.
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, but be cautious not to overwater. Water from the base by placing the pot in a shallow dish of water and letting the plant absorb what it needs for a few minutes. Avoid getting water on the leaves and crown to prevent rot.
Temperature: Cyclamen thrive in cooler temperatures (around 60-65°F). Avoid placing them in overly warm rooms, as they prefer the chill of winter to bloom their best.
Dormancy: After the blooming period, cyclamen often go dormant. Don’t be alarmed if the leaves yellow and die back. Reduce watering, and store the plant in a cool, dark place until new growth begins in late summer or early fall.

Tip: Cyclamen can rebloom year after year! Just give them a cool rest period after flowering, and they’ll reward you with fresh blooms next winter.

Lemon Cypress: The Festive, Fragrant Evergreen

Lemon cypress, with its bright yellow-green foliage and refreshing lemon scent, adds a unique pop of color and fragrance to holiday decor. These charming little evergreens are perfect as tabletop trees or as accents for mantels and entryways.

How to Care for Your Lemon Cypress:

Light: Lemon cypress thrives in bright, direct light. Place it near a sunny window where it can get at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. Check the top inch of soil and water when it starts to feel dry. Lemon cypress doesn’t like to dry out, so maintain a regular watering schedule.
Temperature: Prefers cooler temperatures around 50-65°F. Avoid placing it near heaters or fireplaces, as it does best in a cool, stable environment.
Humidity: While it can adapt to average indoor humidity, lemon cypress will benefit from occasional misting, especially in dry indoor air.

Tip: Lemon cypress can be moved outdoors in spring! In warmer months, it makes a lovely addition to outdoor container gardens or can be planted in the ground in milder climates.

General Tips for Holiday Plant Care

Avoid Direct Heat & Cold Drafts: Place holiday plants away from heating vents, fireplaces, or drafty doors. Sudden temperature changes can stress the plants.
Watch the Watering: Plants need less water in winter, so be cautious not to overwater. Check soil moisture first.
Add Some Fertilizer (After the Holidays): Once the holiday season is over, consider adding a balanced fertilizer in spring to support new growth for the next year.

These festive plants don’t just add beauty to your holiday decor; they can be a lasting part of your indoor garden with a little care. So go ahead and bring the spirit of the season into your home with poinsettias, Christmas cactus, and Norfolk pines – and enjoy the warmth they add all winter long.

And if you’d like to listen to our Greenhouse Expert, Farid, talk about this topic with our friend Maria from Growing Joy with Plants Podcast, click below! You can also come visit us at any of our 7 locations for in-person advice!

November 7, 2024 In Christmas, Feature, featured

Video: Step-By-Step guide to your own Holiday Mini Conifer Container

Get ready to bring some festive charm to your doorstep! In this video, we’ll show you step-by-step how to create a beautiful holiday container featuring a mix of mini conifers. Using a blend of mini andromeda, gaultheria, American cranberry, dwarf cypress, spruce, and leucothoe, we’ll guide you through arranging these gorgeous plants for a lush, layered look. Watch till the end for a special touch as we add berry sprigs and twinkle lights to make your container truly sparkle this season!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mahoney's Garden Center (@mahoneysgarden)

Here is a list of the Mini Conifers we used in this video to help create your own magical Holiday Mini Conifer Container:

Pieris japonica ‘Little Heath’ | ‘Little Heath’ Andromeda
Vaccinium macrocarpon | American Cranberry
Chamaecyparis pisfera ‘Cyano Viridis’ | ‘Boulevard’ Cypress
Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Bright Gold’ | ‘Bright Gold’ Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Filicoides’ | Fernspray Hinoki Cypress
Picea glauca conica ‘Jeans Dilly’ | ‘Jean’s Dilly’ Dwarf Alberta Spruce
Leucothoe catesbaei ‘Compacta’ | Compact Drooping Leucothoe

Not a conifer, but also used in this magical container:

Gaultheria procumbins | Wintergreen Gaultheria

Shop select small conifers online and many more in our 7 locations!

November 6, 2024 In Christmas, Feature, featured, Houseplants, info-library, Seasonal

Norfolk Island Pine 101: Indoor Care Tips for a Happy Tree

The Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla) is one of those versatile and charming plants that can easily steal the spotlight whether it’s gracing your living room or beautifying your garden. Although it’s not a true pine tree, it has a similar stately, evergreen appearance that makes it stand out. It’s often associated with Christmas because of its tree-like structure, but it’s a wonderful plant to enjoy year-round. So, if you’re wondering how to keep your Norfolk Island Pine thriving!

norfolk island pine

What’s So Special About Norfolk Island Pine?

Native to Norfolk Island in the South Pacific, this plant has a tropical vibe while still maintaining the classic “pine” look we associate with the holidays. Indoors, it makes a perfect little house tree, growing slowly and staying manageable. Outdoors in the right climate (that’s way down south in zones 10 and 11), it can become a tall and impressive specimen tree!

Fun fact: In its natural habitat, it can grow over 200 feet tall! But don’t worry—indoors it grows much more slowly, topping out around 6 feet if given the space.

Now, let’s break down how to care for this beauty!

Light: Bright, But Indirect

Norfolk Island Pines love bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a sunny window, but make sure it doesn’t sit in the direct sun all day. Too much sunlight can cause the needles to brown, while too little light can make the plant grow leggy (stretched out) as it searches for the sun. If you don’t have a spot with enough natural light, a grow light can help give it a boost.

Tip: Rotate your plant every few weeks so it grows evenly and doesn’t lean toward the light source.

Watering: Just Right

The Norfolk Island Pine prefers soil that’s moist but not waterlogged. The trick is to water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry to the touch. Water thoroughly, letting the excess drain out of the pot’s bottom, and then wait until the soil dries out before watering again. Too much water can lead to root rot, while too little can make the needles turn brown and crispy.

During winter months, when the plant isn’t growing as much, reduce your watering schedule. Your pine won’t need as much water during this time.

Tip: If you’re unsure, it’s better to err on the side of slightly dry rather than overwatered. They’re more tolerant of drought than soggy soil.

Humidity: Keep It Moist

Being from a tropical island, Norfolk Island Pines thrive in humid environments. If the air in your home is too dry (especially in the winter when the heat is on), the tips of the branches might start to brown. To keep the air around your plant humid, you can:

Use a humidifier near the plant.
Place a humidity tray (a shallow dish filled with water and pebbles) under the pot.

Norfolk Island Pines will appreciate the extra humidity and reward you with lush, green branches.

Temperature: Cozy and Stable

Your Norfolk Island Pine prefers normal room temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Avoid cold drafts from doors or windows, and keep the plant away from heat sources like radiators or vents that could dry it out. Sudden temperature changes or extremes can stress the plant, so aim to keep its environment steady and comfortable.

Fertilizing: Feed It During the Growing Season

In spring and summer, you can give your Norfolk Island Pine a little boost by fertilizing it. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (like a Espoma Organics Indoor) once a month to encourage healthy growth. In the fall and winter, the plant’s growth slows down, so you can stop fertilizing until the next spring.

Repotting: Only When Necessary

Norfolk Island Pines grow slowly indoors, so you won’t need to repot often—probably only every 3-4 years. When you do, choose a pot that’s just one size larger (approximately 2 inches bigger in diameter) than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix. A good mix for this plant would be something with a combination of regular potting soil, sand, and perlite for drainage.

Common Indoor Problems and Solutions

Even with the best care, you might encounter a few issues with your Norfolk Island Pine. Here’s how to handle the most common problems:

Browning Tips: If you notice the needle tips turning brown, it’s often due to low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity around the plant or adjust your watering schedule.
Yellowing or Drooping Branches: This can be a sign of overwatering. Check the soil and make sure it’s not soggy. Allow it to dry out before watering again.
Leggy Growth: If your plant starts looking stretched out with long spaces between branches, it’s not getting enough light. Move it to a brighter spot or supplement with a grow light.

The Norfolk Island Pine is a wonderful indoor companion, bringing an air of grace and calm to any room. With the right balance of light, water, and humidity, it will thrive and stay green year-round. It’s slow-growing, so you won’t need to worry about it outgrowing your space anytime soon—just enjoy its beauty and tropical charm!

Visit any of our 7 locations this holiday season and pick one up for yourself and may your Norfolk Island Pine bring a bit of island magic to your home! 🌿

SHOP NORFOLK PINE ONLINE

January 18, 2024 In Christmas, info-library, Seasonal

Choosing the right type of Christmas tree for you!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mahoney’s Garden Center (@mahoneysgarden)

December 8, 2023 In Christmas, Seasonal

Helpful Tips: The Difference Between Fraser and Balsam Fir Christmas Trees

At Mahoney’s, we are proud to be part of your holiday traditions by offering fresh cut Christmas trees at all seven of our locations. We’re thrilled to have a variety of specialty trees including Blue Spruce, Alpine Fir, Concolor Fir, Silver Fir, Korean Fir, Cooks Fir, and White Pine but the most popular trees for your holiday centerpiece are Balsam Fir and Fraser Fir. We often get asked, what’s the difference between Fraser and Balsam Fir Christmas Trees? Here’s a quick breakdown of each, but remember: both will bring the merriest of the holidays to your home! Available in all shapes, sizes and price points in our stores now.

Fraser Fir
Distinguished by its robust branches and stiff needles, the Fraser Fir is a top contender. Its needles, with a deep blue-green hue and silvery-blue undersides, are shorter and rounded (about 0.5 to 1 inch) while offering excellent needle retention. The needles spiral around each branch, providing a unique and resilient structure ideal for heavier ornaments.

Balsam Fir
Meanwhile, the Balsam Fir, grown at Mahoney’s Evergreens, our own sustainable tree farm, is known for its softer needles and flexibility compared to the Fraser. With needles sporting a dark green color and silver undersides, they are longer and flatter (ranging from about 0.75 to 1.25 inches) and emit a stronger fragrance. These needles grow in two rows along the sides of each branch, offering a different visual arrangement than the spiral pattern of the Fraser Fir.

Watch our video below to visualize the difference and click here for our guide to caring for your fresh cut tree!