When applied to the soil surface in a 2- to 3-inch layer, this pine-type mulch will not have to be composted. The mulch will help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and supply nutrients as it decomposes. You can also use the mulch in animal pens, garden paths, and along fencerows to suppress weeds. However, if you mixed this fresh or "green" mulch into the soil, then you will run the risk of causing a nitrogen deficiency in your plants. Because pine mulch contains a lot of carbon and little nitrogen, the microorganisms responsible for breaking down the mulch will have to draw upon nitrogen that's already present in the soil, leaving less available for your plants. Nitrogen-deficient plants look stunted and their oldest leaves turn yellow. If you need to put green mulch directly into the soil, it is a good idea to add a nitrogen-containing fertilizer. The general recommendation is to apply 1 pound of actual nitrogen per 100 pounds of dry wood or bark fragments. For example, add 10 pounds of a 10-10-10 fertilizer to supply 1 pound of actual nitrogen to a 100-pound pile of mulch.

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