The Ponderosa Pine prefers a different climate than Southern California. It primarily occurs in mountainous regions. It prefers cooler, wetter climates. This tree looks to be a “fish out of water”. When a plant is not provided with its optimum growing conditions, it weakens the plant and lessens its ability to fend off diseases and pests. Plus this a young tree without an established root system. Pine trees are evergreen and do not have a dormant period. This tree might do best if relocated to a more mountainous region.
The brown needles are either due to under watering or some type of insect. The white spots you describe could be an insect or a natural part of the plant. If you would like to send in close ups of the white spots, we will be happy to try to ID for you.
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