How to Use Pine Mulch

Pine mulch is an economical mulch for garden beds of all types. The most common pine mulch products are pine bark nuggets and pine straw.Pine Straw is used most commonly in the southern most states and sometimes can be found in other areas of the United States. It is the actual leaf or pine needle of the pine tree. Pine straw provides a great weed inhibitor and attractive rust color to your garden beds. Another benefit for landscapers in cooler climates, the pine straw is known insulate your garden beds from extreme chills and heat waves.Pine bark nuggets are large two to three inch pieces of pine bark that are sold in bags. The benefit to pine bark nugget is that they break down very slowly. Pine bark also inhibits weed growth so the use of chemical weed chemicals is not needed as frequently.Whether you choose pine bark nuggets or pine straw, you will be pleased with the staying power and the weed control benefits.

Things You'll Need

• Bales of pine straw
• Bags of pine bark nuggets
• Rake

Instructions

How to Use Pine Mulch

1. Identify what beds you need to mulch. Decide if you would like the more rustic look of pine bark nuggets or the more refined look of pine straw.

2. Purchase a bag of each and try them in your garden bed. If you do this step, you may prevent buying a large lot of mulch you are not happy with the look of.

3. Take measurements of the length and width of your garden bed. Multiply the two to get the total square feet needed to cover your beds with pine mulch.

4. Purchase the pine mulch from your local landscaper. Let them know your total square feet of your garden beds. Most bales cover two square feet. For example, if you have a garden bed that is ten square feet, you will approximately need five bales of pine straw.

5. Scatter the pine straw throughout your bed. Make sure you have about two to three inches of thickness throughout the mulch. Ensuring even thickness will ensure even coverage for heat and cold extremes.

6. Lightly tamp down the mulch to make an even layer. You may have to use a rake for the pine bark nuggets.

Tips & Warnings

• Call around for prices for pine straw and pine bark nuggets. The prices can vary widely from supplier to supplier. Most pine mulch is produced in the South, so prices may be most economical in that region.

• Do not crush the pine straw down. It will settle with time.

• Leave room around the roots and base of trees, shrubs and plants so water can accumulate around the plant and prevent dehydration.