Mulch Coverings
Shredded leaves make a good mulch for woody ornamental plants and beds of perennials. If a leaf shedder is not available, run over the leaves with the lawn mower. Results tend to be the same. Woody-stemmed plants benefit from two to three inches of mulch, which conserves moisture and insulates roots from low winter temperatures. A mulch covering insulates spring-flowering bulbs from the winter sun—they need constant cold for proper development. Warm rays of sun benefit shoots emerging in late winter.
Collect fallen pine needles to use as mulch throughout the year around azaleas, camellias and other shrubs, and also in flower and vegetable beds. Because of their waxy coating, pine needles usually last longer than shredded bark mulches. Store extra pine needles in plastic trash beds or in a pile covered with plastic to keep needles dry.