Uses of Pine Needles

Like leaves, pine needles are also shed from trees. Unlike the leaf drop we are accustomed to seeing during autumn, however, pine needles may fall at any point during the year. Typically, this is a natural way of allowing the older needles to drop and allow for the growth of newer, younger needles.

Also like leaves, there are several ways that fallen pine needles can be put to particularly good use throughout the year. Consider the following.

During summer, fallen pine needles may be placed in flower beds or may be used to encircle landscaping trees. This is both a functional and economical way to use a natural process to add aesthetic appeal to a landscape. It's also a good way to cover unsightly areas that may require attention and maintenance. This is particularly true of bare spots or of withered summer garden plots.

And speaking of gardens, pine needles can also be collected and placed with other organic material in a compost bin. Because the breakdown of composted material takes time, starting your collection at summer's end is an ideal time to ensure the availability of a rich compost full of nutrients for the following spring's planting.

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 For young trees or plants, adding pine needles helps to shed and prevent an overabundance of rainfall while still allowing the water to penetrate the soil and provide what is necessary to sustain the tree.

During winter, an accumulation of fallen pine needles can be placed around trees for added protective measures, such as insulation. This is especially true in regions which are located at higher elevations or which consistently experience a harsh winter climate.

Fallen pine needles may also be used to bring a touch of the outdoors indoors, especially during the holiday season. Consider adding pine needles to tablescapes or holiday centerpieces, across mantelpieces or hearths, in wreaths, or creatively fashioned around holiday-scented candles.

From time to time, some of the needles that fall from pine trees could be indicative of a problem. For instance, needle drop may be a problem if the tree is under considerable stress, perhaps during a time of persistent drought. Since aridity sometimes plagues the Austin area, as well as other regions, particularly in the south, consider contacting an Austin tree trimming specialist if you suspect that a pine tree may be experiencing environmental stressors which are triggering needle drop.

Tree health and maintenance are very important to most homeowners. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the status of any of your landscaping pines, contact an Austin tree care professional for expertise and assistance.