Pine Straw: How to Use It in the Garden

Landscaping with Pine Straw

Pine straw is also known as pine mulch, pine straw mulch, or pine needle mulch. It helps control weeds, insulates the ground, and keeps the soil from experiencing temperature fluctuations. Plus, your pets can walk on pine straw without hurting themselves.

Unlike other types of mulch, pine straw won’t wash away during heavy rains. That’s because the needles interlock. For that reason, it’s also the ideal ground cover to use on slopes and hills. Additionally, you won’t attract termites like you would with hardwood mulch. Use slash pine or longleaf straw in high-wind areas for extra protection because the longer needles interlock exceptionally well.

Making your yard beautiful with Pine Straw

Since pine straw has an acidic level comparable to rainwater (6.0 to 6.5), many of your flowers, trees, plants, and shrubs will thrive. These include blueberries, strawberries, hostas, azaleas, rose of Sharon, ferns, rhododendrons, astilbe, magnolias, and many more. You should spread this mulch at least 2 to 3 inches deep for maximum benefit.

To control weeds, apply the mulch at least 3 inches deep. That’s because you want the pine straw to block out the light that makes infant weeds survive. Apply it by shaking it in handfuls over the area, and make sure the needles land on the ground in a loose and fluffy manner.

To protect your tree’s root system from cold weather:

1. Place the straw around the base.
2. Make a bed that measures about 2 feet in diameter and 3 inches deep for small trees.
3. In frigid climates, increase the depth of the straw to 6 inches.

Due to its longevity, pine straw only needs to be changed annually. Even though it can last several years, it looks better when applied once a year. Storing your extra pine mulch between uses is easy. Just keep it in boxes in a cool, dry place such as a garage, and you’ll enjoy it season after season.

Buy your Pine Straw at TN Nursery