I’ve got two huge Eastern White Pines in my back yard that lose about a third of their needles every year, starting just about now. Recently I read that instead of bagging them I should use them as mulch. But I’m worried the would make the soil more acidic over time, especially in my flower beds.
Is this something I should be worried about? Or are pine needles okay in flower beds. I already toss some of the needles back under the two pines, but the only thing I plant back there are azaleas which already like acidic soil.
Planting eastern white pine on property could be helpful if no vitiamin C can be found the eastern white pine is common, readily identifiable by the fact its needles grow in clusters of five, and makes for a tasty tea
IMPORTANT NOTE: Don’t make tea out of anything that you can’t 100% identify. Some types of evergreens like Cypress and Yew trees are toxic. Also, don’t drink pine needle tea if you are pregnant or nursing.
Pine Needle Tea
The Sophisticated Caveman
3 years ago
Pine Needle Tea is a refreshing foraged drink that boosts the immune system and warms the soul during the darkest of winter days.
I don’t want to let my inner hippie shine too brightly right now, but I am a firm believer that Pachamama (Mother Earth) provides you with exactly what you need at the time you need it most.
Case in point: it’s the middle of winter. You’re tired, drained, and feel a possible case of the sniffles coming on.
Looking for something to treat your ailment, you glance out the doorway of your thatched hut (I forgot to mention that you live in a thatched hut)
The landscape is seemingly barren, save for a few green entities.
Pine trees.
Yes, the common conifer tree can be use to make a brew loaded with immune-boosting vitamins.
Once again Mother Earth saves the day. Isn’t she a wonderful lady?
Pine Needle Tea Benefits
Several benefits of pine needle tea include:
Rich in Vitamin C: a cup of pine needle tea contains more than 4 times the amount of Vitamin C found in a glass of orange juice.
High levels of Vitamin A: pine needles are a great source of Vitamin A, which is good for eyesight and immunity.
Expectorant properties: the tea can be used to ease chest congestion and alleviate sore throats.
Antioxidants: pine needles are also a great source of antioxidants, which protect your cells from free radicals.
Refreshing taste: not surprisingly, the tea has a delightful, piney taste.
Pine Needle Tea FAQ
What does Pine Needle Tea taste Like?
Pine needle tea has a mild, pleasant taste. Depending on the variety of pine needles use, it can also have notes of citrus.
Is Pine Needle Tea Dangerous?
It is generally considered safe, however pine needle tea should not be consumed if you are pregnant or nursing as is may cause a possible miscarriage.
Which Pine Needles are safe for tea?
The Eastern White Pine makes a great tea, but any variety of pine, spruce, or hemlock tree can be used. Avoid using needles from any Cypress or Yew tree as they can be toxic.
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