Can Pine Needles Be Used To Protect Rhododendron In Winter

Question From: G. Honeycutt - TENNESSEE
Q: I live in East Tn., I put brown pine needles that have fallen around the base of my Rhodendron. Would mulch or these pine needles be best to put around the base ( my crepe myrtle was just set out this year).

A:

The pine needles will work just fine. Be sure soil is moist at the base of the shrub as winter approaches. You may need to water it. Happy Yardening, Nancy