Have you ever wondered when pine trees bloom? Many people don’t realize that this evergreen tree species has a blooming season. Today you will learn more about pine trees and when they begin to bloom.
Pine Trees Bloom, Does That Mean They Have Flowers?
When most people think of the word blooming, their minds go directly to flowers. However, pine trees do bloom but have you ever seen a flower on one?
No, pine trees do not produce a flower, but they do have a blooming season. This may seem confusing to you, and below we will explain things in further detail.
Pine Trees Are Gymnosperms
Unlike most plants that rely on insects to pollinate, pine trees utilize seed cones and the wind. Since there is no need to attract insects, the pine tree does not produce a flower. Conifers including pine trees are known as gymnosperms. Other trees also fall into this category, including the Ginkgo Biloba tree.
Two Different Cone Types
Pine trees have two different types of cones. Each of these cones does something different to help the tree reproduce without the need for pollinating insects. Let’s learn more about each cone type and how they work together.
Male Cone
The male cone of a pine tree often goes unnoticed. Male cones have an elongated shape, and they appear in clusters on the tree. The male cone will contain pollen, which is needed for reproduction. In most cases, male cones grow no longer than a half-inch. This is why male cones are often never noticed by people, who are not familiar with the pine tree.
Male cones are unopened, unlike the female cones which eventurally open. During the spring, when the pollinating season has finished, the male cones drop to the ground.
Female Cone
Most people are familiar with female pinecones. These cones are much larger than the male cones, and they are often used in decorations during the fall. The female pinecone can be anywhere from 2 inches long to several feet long, depending on the species.
The pollination process happens inside of the female cone. Wind-borne pollen is picked up by the female cone, and the pollination process begins. This process can take up to a year in many pine tree species.
Once the female cone has been pollinated, it will develop seeds and slowly start to open. Once open, the seeds of the female pinecone will begin to fall out, and new plants will form from the seeds.
When Is Pine Tree Blooming Season?
Now that we know how these trees pollinate, we need to know when is pine tree blooming season. Depending on the species, most pine trees will begin pollinating in the month of May. This springtime bloom is loved by some and hated by others. Many people are allergic to pine pollen and get sick during this time of year.
When Is the Best Month to Plant Pine Trees?
If you’re thinking of planting pine trees on your property, you should do so between December and March. This is the best time to plant them, and it will give them the best chance at survival.
When planting pine trees, you have two options. You can plant from seeds, or you can purchase pine tree seedlings. Most people choose to plant seedlings because they are already established and have a much higher survival rate.
Plant Pine Trees During A Cool Day
For a greater survival rate choose a cool day to plant pine tree seedlings. Seedlings are tender and can be damaged by periods of severe heat. This is another reason why people should plant pine trees during the winter months.
Avoid Planting Pine Trees Close to Your Home
Pine trees can add value and beauty to any property. However, it is never a good idea to plant pine trees too close to your home. Pine trees often suffer from wind damage, and during high winds, they may come crashing down on your house.
Pine Tree Blooms: Conclusion
Now that you know when and how pine trees pollinate, you can decide if you want to grow these trees on your property. The pine is a unique and beautiful tree that comes in many different varieties.