Pine Straw in Cincinnati

If you’re looking for an alternative to mulch, consider using pine straw in your landscaping. Pine trees shed their needles annually. These are raked from the ground, cleaned, bundled, and sold as landscaping material. Lightweight and easy to spread, this wood mulch alternative is ideal for flower beds or as ground cover. The light brown color complements almost any landscape and home style. If you’re looking for pine straw near you, Irvine Wood Recovery has it!

To apply, we recommend spreading it around your landscaping about 2 to 3 inches deep. Just like wood mulch, don’t spread it all the way to the plant base or tree trunk—leave it about 2 or 3 inches away.

Is pine straw better than mulch?

Many landscapers and homeowners debate whether pine straw or mulch is better for plants. There are pros and cons to both options. Mulch is an effective weed blocker and also helps to improve drainage. However, it does not last as long as pine straw, so you may need to reapply it more often. Pine straw, on the other hand, is typically cheaper and it breaks down over time, providing nutrients for the soil. So, which should you choose? If you want a product that will last longer, go with pine straw. If you’re mainly concerned about weeds or drainage, mulch may be a better option. Ultimately, the best choice for your landscaping depends on your specific needs.

Can you put mulch over pine straw?

The answer is yes, you can put mulch over pine straw, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that it is completely dry before covering it with mulch. Otherwise, the damp conditions could cause it to rot. Second, be sure to use a thinner layer of mulch than you would normally use, as the pine straw will take up some of the space.

How long does it last?

Pine straw breaks down slowly, so it doesn’t need to be replaced as often as other types of mulch. Depending on the climate, it can last anywhere from one to three years. Here in Cincinnati, our moderate climate means that it can sometimes last for up to three years.

When it is time to put down new pine straw, do not remove the older layer! One of the many benefits of landscaping with natural alternatives is that they provide nutrients to the soil beneath as they decompose. Just put the new material directly on top of the older layer of material when the time to replenish rolls around.

How many bales of pine straw do I need for my yard?

Deciding how many bales you need for your yard depends on a few different variables. How big is your yard? What condition is the soil in? Are you looking to cover a large area of your yard, or just create a border around the perimeter? Once you have answered these questions, you can begin to calculate how many bales you will need to purchase. The typical recommendation is to spread a 2–3 inch deep layer with one bale, which covers anywhere from 40-50 square feet.

The best way to determine how many bales you need is to, of course, ask the experts at Irvine Wood Recovery! We can give you an accurate estimate based on the specific needs of your yard.

Does it attract snakes?

While it doesn’t necessarily attract snakes, it can provide them with a good hiding place if it is applied six inches or deeper. Keep in mind that thickly-applied pine straw can quickly become matted down, making it an ideal location for snakes to hide. If you stick to laying the recommended 2-3 inches, you should not have any major issues with snakes in your landscaping. Alternatively, you can take steps to control the snake population on your property by eliminating potential food sources and providing them with fewer places to hide.

Does pine straw prevent weeds?

Pine straw is excellent for weed control. The needles contain an acidic substance that helps to prevent the growth of weeds. It blocks sunlight, which prevents weed seeds from germinating. It’s a great mulch for gardens and landscaping because it breaks down slowly, adding nutrients to the soil over time. Mulching with pine needles is one of the most affordable and environmentally-friendly weed preventers on the market.

Why choose Irvine Wood Recovery?

Sure, you can pick up pine straw (maybe—if they have it) at a big box store, but can you count on quality and customer service when you get there? At Irvine Wood Recovery, we’re a locally-owned business that prides itself on:

Competitive Prices

Our on-site, quality-assured processes make it possible to offer superior pine straw mulch at low prices while maintaining high-quality standards.

Unmatched Quality

Irvine Wood Recovery offers superior pine straw that is clean and nutrient-rich.

Sustainability

Like our wood mulch, this alternative isn’t manufactured, it’s a natural product. Fallen pine needles that may otherwise go to waste are gathered and used in landscaping.

Looking for pine straw for sale near you?

If you’re interested in getting started on your landscape project, contact us today to learn more about our mulch products, including pine straw. We’d love to help you take your landscaping up a notch!

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