Expert: Jim Hyland - 3/12/2011

Question
I live in Denver.  I have a mature Tanyosho pine in my yard. We're planning to spend winters in Florida.  Can I be confident that the pine would survive for four months without watering?  Normally, I water it, when we've had dry weather for a few weeks. Thanks for your generous help.

Answer
After two full growing seasons, tanyosho pine is relatively drought tolerant, only requiring water during the most extreme of droughts. Since it is mature it should have a well developed root system that will not be a problem. The winter months are not as stressful as the hotter summer months. I do not think you will have any problem as far as water needs in the winter months. I would say it will survive great. Sounds like you will have the best of two worlds--summer in Denver and winter in Florida. Enjoy and do not worry about the pine.