Pine straw is one of our most recommended mulches; it not only helps retain moisture and helps prevents weeds, but breaks down to add acidity to your soil (which is great for things like Azaleas, Ixoras and Camellias) and adds a perfectly natural look to those spaces. Each bale covers about 20 SqFt at a 2" depth. It is a renewable resource making it a great choice. It allows more air to plant roots than other mulches and has superior holding capability by staying in place on slopes or in rains better than most other organic mulches.