Can I Compost Pine needles?
Yes
Pine needles can be composted.
What to Know
- Pine needles can be composted, but they decompose slowly and are acidic
- They're considered a 'brown' material in composting terms, providing carbon to the compost pile
- Due to their waxy coating and acidic nature, they take longer to break down than other materials
Tips
- Shred or chop pine needles before adding to speed up decomposition
- Mix with 'green' materials like grass clippings or food scraps to balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio
- Use pine needles in moderation, as too many can make your compost overly acidic
- Consider using them as mulch around acid-loving plants as an alternative to composting