In spring, collect pine cones in bags in the forest: the benefits of pine cones in the garden - the effect will surprise gardeners

Pine cones are a wonderful material that can be of great use to any gardener, but not every gardener knows about it.

An expert of the online publication BelNovosti, agronomist, and landscape designer Anastasia Kovrizhnykh , told us how pine cones are useful in a summer cottage.

Ways to use cones

Drainage and mulch

Cones can be used as drainage when growing a variety of plants. In addition, this material is suitable for mulching trees - cones are able to remove excess moisture, while providing good access to air and thus creating optimal conditions for the growth and development of crops.

In winter, a layer of cones protects the tree roots from the harmful effects of low temperatures.

If you want to mulch your plot with pine cones, you should start the procedure at the beginning of spring, after the last snow has melted.

Furnace firebox

The core of the cones is great for heating the stove, and the ash that remains will be a first-class fertilizer, because it contains a lot of substances useful for plants.

Rules for collecting cones

The pine cone harvesting season begins in the spring and ends in late summer, but the exact dates depend on local weather conditions.

When collecting cones, it is important to pay attention to their quality. The ideal cone should be straight, dense and have closed scales, without signs of disease or damage from insects. It is better not to take completely open cones or those with damaged scales.

Cones should be collected carefully, preferably those that are already lying on the ground. It is recommended to choose dry weather for collection, as wet cones can quickly spoil or become moldy.

Storing cones

After collection, the cones should be laid out on a cloth or paper and cleaned of debris and needles using a vacuum cleaner or brush. Then, treatment with an insectofungicide should follow.

Once the cones are dry, they can be placed in boxes or baskets, layering the cones with paper or fabric. It is best to store boxes with cones in a dry and dark place, such as a shed or attic. Don't forget to cover them with fabric or paper to protect them from direct sunlight.

Previously, we named 3 fatal mistakes when growing eggplants.