Pine Straw Bales

Pine straw or needles typically comes from pine plantations which produce paper and wood products. Because they “knit together,” the pine needles are less likely to wash away than some other mulches.

Pine needles make fine mulch for flower beds. They are light and fluffy. Spreading them around is easy and they don’t compact over time much as they decompose. You rarely have to worry about them becoming too thick or forming a rain-impervious mat.

PROS: sustainable; won’t wash away.

CONS: color options limited to natural pine needle color; availability is limited in some areas, therefore it can be more difficult to find than some other mulches; not very suitable for foot traffic.