two branches does not mean it is dying..

remove them in a month when you are sure they are dead..

and quit transplanting it..

all conifers prefer full sun ... some can tolerate a bit less ... is there any way.. you can increase light levels???

ken

Thunderhead!

I'd say get the poor tree out of the pot and into the ground. Those poor roots baking and cooling, sometimes getting water, sometimes not. It's probably going crazy.

Also, Z6 is probably a push for a Pinus thunbergii. What you're seeing now probably dies during the winter.

good luck,
Dave

Dave is right about the winter browning. Pinus thunbergii will do that normally, a new plant in October increases the browning even more. Moving it was probably not in it's best interest, but I agree with Ken... moving it again is not something I would do. The container is light colored and made of wood, two things in your favor as far as not cooking the roots. Watch the water very close, ideally I would put it where other plants shade the pot, but the top gets more sun...in a bed somewhere. When you do put it in the ground (this fall, don't leave it in the pot for winter), don't put it "against the foundation", you'll only have to move it yet again. Give it some room.

tj