March 21, 2019

Mulching the Pinetum at My Farm

As many of you know I am very fond of trees. Since I purchased my Bedford farm, I’ve planted thousands and thousands of them, and I am so happy most of them have thrived.

Behind my Equipment Barn and near a grove of weeping willows is my pinetum, an arboretum of pine trees and other conifers I developed about 12-years ago. This pinetum collection has grown extremely well, and I continue to plant additional specimens every spring. Recently, I decided to replace the grass surrounding these trees with mulch. Doing this better regulates the soil temperature - keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter, adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down, and helps prevent the growth of weeds. Mulched areas also don’t need regular watering or mowing like lawns do. Fortunately, we are able to make lots of mulch, and compost, right here at my farm. The new layer of mulch has transformed the pinetum, and it looks great.

Here are some photos - enjoy.