Pine Straw Mulch: A Natural, Sustainable Choice
Lightweight and Efficient:
- Pine straw mulch is lighter than wood mulch, making it easier to handle during landscaping tasks.
- A single bale of pine straw (weighing about 35 pounds) covers approximately 50 square feet, while a standard 2-cubic-foot bag of wood mulch (25 pounds) covers only 12 square feet.
- Pine straw provides three times the coverage per pound compared to wood mulch.
Types of Pine Needles:
- Long-Needle Pine Straw: Derived from longleaf pine trees, these needles are 12 to 18 inches long. They decompose slowly and have an appealing reddish hue.
- Short-Needle Pine Straw: Comes from loblolly or slash pine trees and is 4 to 8 inches long. It has a light brown color.
Sustainability:
- Pine straw sold in stores is harvested from timber farms and companies like Straw America. While the environmental impact varies, reusing fallen needles from your own loblolly or longleaf pine trees as mulch is a sustainable option.
- Some homeowners rake their own pine straw from fallen needles as free mulch, and you only need to remove cones and sticks.
- Other businesses such as garden & landscape stores, golf courses, hotels, schools and more purchase pine straw wholesale from suppliers such as Straw America.
Moisture Retention:
- Pine straw forms a loose mat that allows water to flow through to the soil while slowing evaporation.
- Adequate airflow prevents excess moisture buildup, reducing the risk of fungal growth.
Seasonal Insulation:
- Pine straw keeps the soil cool in winter and warm in summer.
- It insulates plant roots from rapid temperature changes, promoting healthy growth.
In summary, pine straw mulch is an eco-friendly, efficient choice that benefits both your plants and the environment. Consider using it to enhance your landscape and conserve water.