Growing Palms in Pine Needle Mulch

Pine Mulch

• This may include either pine needles, also known as pine straw, broken up pine shavings or bark nuggets. Pine needles are aesthetically pleasing, and stay in place better than mulch that contains larger pieces, such as bark. Pine bark nuggets are lightweight and chunky, and easily wash away in heavy rain.

Decorative

• Many people use bark mulches around their palm trees, but it can look dull and worn out over time. A thin layer of pine needles on top of the old mulch is a good way to not only freshen up the look of the old mulch, but to add in a change in textures and color. A slight change like this can brighten up your landscaping and add visual interest without affecting the roots of your palm tree. Remove and replace mulch entirely at least every two years to keep from getting too thick a layer.

Application

• Mulch any tree, including palm trees, in such a way that the mulch does not become a hindrance to the tree by rotting the trunk or starving the roots of oxygen. Do so by avoiding the mulch “volcano” that happens when it is piled around the base of the tree. Apply mulch in a layer that is 2 to 3 inches thick and spreads over the entire root system, extending slightly beyond the tree's drip line. Do not place mulch within a few inches of the tree trunk. Refresh mulch by raking up and composting the old mulch and starting fresh with new mulch every couple of years.

Protection

• Palm trees have very sensitive trunks with thin bark that is easily damaged by power trimmers and weed whackers. Applying mulch around the base of the palm, leaving breathing space between the mulch and the trunk to prevent rot, keeps down weeds and creates a buffer between lawn care equipment and the palm's trunk. Any weeds that may pop through the mulch are easily pulled out and disposed of by hand.