The growth rate of Eastern White Pines, especially in the early years, can be quite slow. These trees typically start off with a height of around 13 cm (5 in) when they are 3 years old. By the time they reach the age of 5, they have grown to about 30 cm (12 in) in height. It is not until they are around 8 to 10 years old that they experience a significant growth spurt and can reach a height of approximately 137 cm (54 in).
I have personally observed the slow growth of Eastern White Pines in my own gardening and landscaping endeavors. When I first planted young white pine saplings, I was surprised at how slowly they seemed to grow in the first few years. It almost seemed as if they were barely making any progress. However, I learned that this is quite normal for this species.
The slow growth of white pines in their early years can be attributed to a variety of factors. These include competition for sunlight, nutrients, and water from other plants in the vicinity. Open-grown trees, which have more access to light and resources, tend to grow slightly faster than those growing in more crowded conditions.
However, once Eastern White Pines surpass the 8 to 10-year mark, their height growth can become quite rapid. This growth spurt is influenced by various factors such as favorable environmental conditions, access to adequate sunlight, and the tree’s genetic potential. It is during this phase that the white pines start to establish their dominance in the landscape and can rapidly increase in height.
In my experience, I have seen white pines that were initially small and slow-growing suddenly shoot up in height within just a couple of years. This growth can be quite impressive, and it is one of the reasons why white pines are often valued in landscaping for their ability to provide quick vertical structure and screening.
It is important to note that while height growth may be quite rapid after the initial slow phase, the overall growth rate of Eastern White Pines may vary depending on various factors such as soil conditions, climate, and available resources. Some trees may continue to grow at a steady pace, while others may experience periodic growth spurts followed by slower periods.
To summarize, a 10-year-old Eastern White Pine can reach a height of approximately 137 cm (54 in). However, it is crucial to remember that the growth rate of these trees is initially slow, and it is only after the first few years that they experience significant height growth.
