I'm new to chickens. I adopted an older flock this past fall. We live in a rural area, densely populated with pine trees. We have a huge pile of pine needles that has been growing for years. This is where all the needles carpeting the lawn end up. Coincidentally, next to this pile is where we put the coop. Our chickens don't have a run, they free range. This pile is their favorite place. They spend all day digging it up. Thanks to them, the pile has broken down very quickly. It's less than half its original size. The soil beneath looks rich and dark. I've heard that pine needles are acidic. Can I use these composted needles in my vegetable garden?
I'm not having any qualms about putting pine needles in my garden, as the pH is so high that anything that brings it down is, in moderation, a benefit. I suspect the raspberries are loving the pine needles too.
Yes. But, with that being said, you would be wise to have a soil test done, or at least test your pH. I'm guessing that the composted needles are not as acidic as the fresh ones are. You might want to check out the Back To Eden films. There are some gardeners who are of the mind set that if the soil is well fed, pH is not as much of a concern.
