I Have Several White Pine Trees. Is It Okay To…
Carol Asked
I have several white pine trees. Is it okay to use the needles for mulch around any type of plants ?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hello, Carol: Mulching your garden with your own pine needles is a wonderfully economic and beneficial use of your fallen needles. Garden centers sell bales of pine straw and you have your own supply! This organic mulch will benefit your plants in terms of moisture levels and soil temperatures. It will also help prevent weeds from growing. Pine needles are a good choice for mulch because they do not compact as much as other choices, allowing air to circulate. As they break down, the needles will add nutrients back to the soil and improve the soil structure. It is safe to use on all plant material, but your acid-loving plants will especially enjoy this mulch. As with any mulch, make sure that it is no more than 2-3 inches thick.
