This lesson explains, step by step, how to remove old needles on Japanese Black Pine in early spring to balance vigor and promote healthy growth. You will learn how to protect and nurture small buds at the branch base, use apical dominance to adjust needle density, and equalize strong and weak buds. For beginners, the basic “leave-five-needles” rule and practical tips for clean needle removal are presented in clear, easy-to-follow language.