Cypress tree needles as mulch or compost???

[mikej]

Reading the thread about the pine cones got me to thinking about this.

I have a large old Bald Cypress tree in my backyard that every year drops it's leaves (needles). I researched the internet and get conflicting information of using it as mulch or compost material. Some say mulch only. Some say compost is fine. Some say that they are too acidic at large quantities. Some say keep it away from any thing to do with your vegetable garden. I want to hear from the experts here.