moss + pine needles

[DinaJean]

I am extending a bed and the area I am to include is covered with moss and pineneedles on top of that from not raking.

Can I incorporate either one into my soil while I till or should I get rid of them both?

Good dirt underneath, some of which is sandy. Gets good sun in the late afternoon into evening. I am planting some perrenials and some bulbs in the extended bed. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Dina in Pickens, SC :)

[Newt]

You might want to get rid of the moss, or at least most of it.* Moss grows where there is moisture, acid soil and shade.* Incorporate the pine needles and any leaves into the soil.* Add some lime to raise the pH of the soil and discourage the moss.* More sunlight to the bed, if you can do that by limbing up or thinning out trees, will also help.

Have fun planting.* :)*
Newt