Gardening & Outdoors
Here’s why you should hang a pine cone near your back door
Absolutely fascinating, I had no idea.
Jenny Brown
02.12.24

Throughout history, humans have been quite the detectives when it comes to predicting the weather.

We’ve looked up at the sky, observing cloud formations, and even watched animals for hints.

But have you ever thought about using a pine cone?

Yes, you heard that right—a simple pine cone can be a gardener’s ally in forecasting the weather.

pixabay
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pixabay

Let’s dive into the science behind this. Pine cones are not just pretty decorations; they’re nature’s little hygrometers.

Their scales open and close based on the humidity levels in the air.

Dry air? The scales open up, ready to release seeds into the world.

Humid air? They close tight, protecting those seeds from the damp.

pixabay
Source:
pixabay

So, how do you turn a pine cone into your personal weather station?

First, find a healthy pine cone, ideally one that’s just fallen from a tree. Make sure it’s in good shape, not broken or damaged.

Then, tie a string around its base securely. You’ll want to hang it somewhere it can swing freely, like on your porch or from a tree branch, where it can do its thing without disturbance.

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reddit

Now comes the fun part: watching and interpreting the pine cone’s movements.

It’s like reading nature’s own language.

But remember, this method isn’t going to replace your weather app. It’s more about adding a bit of natural wonder to your day.

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reddit

If the pine cone’s scales stay open, you can bet on dry weather ahead.

This is the pine cone’s way of saying, “It’s sunny out there, and I’m feeling good!”

Open scales are a sign of low humidity, typically accompanying those clear, blue-sky days.

reddit
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reddit

On the flip side, when the scales close up, it’s a sign that humidity is on the rise.

This could mean rain is coming, or perhaps snow or fog, depending on the season.

It’s the pine cone’s way of battening down the hatches against the incoming moisture.

reddit
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reddit

Sometimes, the pine cone might seem a bit indecisive, with its scales opening and closing now and then.

This usually happens when the weather is in a state of flux, shifting from dry to humid or vice versa. It’s the pine cone’s version of saying, “Make up your mind, weather!”

There might also be times when the pine cone doesn’t seem to change much at all.

This stability suggests that the weather is holding steady, neither too dry nor too humid. It’s a sign of calm, predictable days ahead.

reddit
Source:
reddit

So, while relying on a pine cone for your weather forecast might not give you minute-by-minute updates, it’s a fascinating way to connect with the natural world.

Just remember to use it alongside your usual weather forecasting methods for the best of both worlds.

And who knows? Observing a pine cone might just add a little extra magic to your gardening routine.

Watch below as this women explains how useful the pinecone prediction is to her!

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