Pine straw comes in different flavors including differences in wax content, and needle length, all of which determine the species from which its harvest. Nonetheless, all mulch does play a critical role in your garden by adding nutrients to the soil and protecting the soil from rain and wind. The following are some of the benefits of using pine straw as mulch:
1. Sustainable and Natural
Pine trees drop their straw or needles naturally which are then raked up and baled for use without having to cut down trees. This makes this one of the most renewable extraction processes as it follows the natural cycles of shedding that happens at preset times of the year.
2. Improves the soil
The straw prevents erosion as it protects the soil underneath from too much rain or wind thus reducing the effect of severe weather conditions. In addition to protecting the soil from erosion, it also creates a chemically balanced soil that will promote the growth of acid-loving plantation such as roses and azaleas. The breakdown of mulch also does release organic matter in the soil thus making it more fertile over time.
3. Easy to Maintain
Unlike wood mulches, pine straw mulch is not easily washed out of beds or float out much like rubber much, and hence you will have a cleaner landscape. It also does not require frequent reapplication since it breaks down so slowly. Unlike leaves or grass clipping which decay to form a crust, it remains loose. You will not have to fluff, refresh, or mix the mulch as it will stay friable and loose for a long time.
4.Prevents the growth of Weeds
Pine mulch tends to discourage the growth of weeds around your plants as compared to wood mulches. Weed seeds often fall through the pine mulch to the bottom where they cannot grow, as compared to wood mulch which provides a fertile ground for the germination and growth of weeds.
5. Visual Appeal
It has a natural uniform color and texture that makes for a beautiful landscape. With its brown neutral colors, it provides a perfect neutral backdrop that makes your plants stand out. You also get to have your beds and gardens looking clean and fresh. The mulch prevents water and mud from splashing onto the flowers and leaves.
6.Cost Effective
While it costs as much as three times the price of wood mulch, it can be spread over a much larger area thus making it just as affordable. Nonetheless, pine straw lasts longer than any other mulch, and hence it is much cheaper over the long run.
7. Helps with Moisture Retention
Pine mulch covers the topsoil near the plant thus preventing the loss of too much moisture from the soil. With moisture retention, the soil will also not suffer from soil compaction, which will make it a better soil for the plants growing on it.