Shaggy Dog Eastern White Pine

If you are looking for something a little different, then Shaggy Dog Eastern white pine may be the perfect find. Shaggy Dog is a modern dwarf conifer selection chosen for its long, soft needles and completely random growth pattern.This rambling dwarf conifer spreads out first while still young to claim a large space in the garden. As the shrub matures, it grows in height, up to 6 feet after 10 years. Provide a large area at the front of your shrub border for this interesting rambler. Shaggy Dog looks its best left untrimmed, so its natural low-growing shape can shine. The evergreen needles are virtually pest- and disease-free. Deer rarely browse on conifers, and slugs and snails prefer to feast on plants with juicier foliage. Over time, Shaggy Dog will become a drought-tolerant addition to any mixed shrub border or foundation planting. Shaggy Dog Eastern White Pine Shaggy Dog Eastern white pine requires full sun, good drainage, and acidic soil above all. The roots of this evergreen do not like standing water or soil that stays excessively wet, especially during the cold months of winter. A location with full sun helps the needles retain their lovely blue-green color, but shade early in the day or late in the afternoon is acceptable. Consistent watering for the first 2-3 years will ensure that the root system develops and establishes successfully. Fertilize lightly in late winter with a slow-release, granular formulation for acid-loving shrubs and perennials. Pruning is not often needed for Shaggy Dog. If the overall shape needs some cleaning up, prune the current years growth only. Cutting into the woody branches is not recommended and may change the overall shape of the shrub. Plant Shaggy Dog in a location sheltered from strong winter winds and away from heavy foot traffic. This dwarf conifer does not tolerate high levels of urban pollution. Shaggy Dog Eastern White Pine Spacing After 10 years or more, Shaggy Dog will reach 5-6 feet tall with a spread of 8 feet or more, so give this shrub room to spread out. Space multiple plants 8 feet from the center of each other. Shaggy Dog would make for an interesting specimen in a large planter. Choose a pot with excellent drainage, and a heavy bottom to counteract heavy top growth; the diameter should be at least 18 inches.