Question
I have planted quite a few pines after a wild fire come through here in Bastrop, Texas. I have 2 out front about 8' tall that don't seem to be doing well. I believe they have received too much water (trees were planted 2 years ago). I dug down about 8" and used a moister meter to probe down another 6 to 8' and the meter indicates wet. My question is, will digging perk holes about 8 to 10" around the tree help dry it out ( keeping in mind I would cover in the event of rain and watering, or am I just wasting time here?

Thank you,

Gary

Answer
A little confused But here is what I understand. You plant pines 2 years ago and they are now 8 feet tall and tow are not looing good. Not sure how tall they were at planting but assuming about 3 feet an 8 foot tree now is doing well. I would do nothing about the wetness--just do not water or use a sprinkler system on them. Loblolly pine will grow in dry areas as well as in swampy areas. So if the foliage is green the tree is ok. If I assume wrong please attach a picture to the question and this may help.