Best Mulch to Prevent Termites: Pine Straw vs. Other Mulch

Are you aware that some mulch types can attract termites? Actually, they take shelter under wood-based mulch, especially when the environment is moist. Not only that, but other factors also contribute to the presentation of termites in the garden.

So, there may come a question in many gardeners’ minds; “Which mulch is the best choice in gardening that also does not attract termites?” Right?

In this guide, we will aim to describe proven mulch options that really prevent termites so that you can create a safe and free-from-pests and disease garden.

Are Each Mulch Type Can Attract Termites?

Not really! The problem is not mulch but a moist environment, which may increase under any mulch type if mulch is used incorrectly.

Termites love humidity and cellulose can be highly found in not only wooden mulches but also other organic mulches, as they retain moisture for plants, keeping the soil moist.

A Research Review

The research looked at termite activity on different mulch types (hardwood, pine bark, small stones (pear gravel), and eucalyptus). Termites ate more food under the stones (gravel).

However, the mulch has no significant effect on termite number or foraging behavior.

In addition, it was also seen that each mulch type kept the soil cool, but there was no substantial difference in temperature and moisture (wetness) under 12cm of the soil.

And when termites were fed only mulch in the laboratory they ate all kinds of mulch but it shortened their lives.

As I have already said, termites love wood to eat but, to live for a long time (that gives time to really damage plants), they need moisture and the safest place.

So, the above research shows that rock mulch (Inorganic mulch) creates moist and safe spots for termites under the soil but does not provide food.

However, wooden-based mulch directly delivers food (cellulose) to termites along moist conditions, allowing them to stay for a long time.

Is Only Mulch Responsible for Termites Presentation?

• No, mulches do not attract termites themselves! Might be they are already present under the moist and deep soil. When mulch is kept moist, termites may get there through their tunneling process while searching for a food source.
• The real issue occurred when the mulch was applied too high against the wall, particularly the wooden fence. Termites can enter your home through walls and damage your garden fence, especially if it is made of wood.
• Additionally, regional climate also contributes to this! Tropical zones have high temperatures even in winter and may create high humidity, increasing termite evidence. On the other hand, cold zones where summer is also moderate may be less prone to termite presence.

Beyond termites activity, here’s explore 10 other hidden reasons disturbing plant growth.

What to do If The Termites Are Already Present in My Mulch?

Well, the matter is clear that termites love moist conditions whether they exist in the underground or mulch. If your current mulch is attracting termites, discover here the signs and consider the following reasons;

• Constant moisture in the mulch
• Thick mulch layer near the house’ walls
• Old or rotted mulch
• Improper Watering Schedule
• Disturbance in air circulation
• Old branches or wooden pieces under the mulch

The risk of termites may be increased if there is wooden mulch in moist conditions.

Mulch and termites is considered as a environmental factor, having different affect on plant growth. Here’s how environmental factors affect plant growth traits.

What Should I Do With the Current Mulch Situation to Minimize the Risk of Termites?

I have no idea, which mulch type you are using in which you have also faced termite issues. Since each plant or group may prefer a specific mulch type, keeping this in view is also important.

Balance the humidity level because termites directly interact with a moist environment instead of mulch type; your main focus should be managing moisture level in the soil, especially in summer or warmer areas.

1. Observe the distance from the house’s walls or fence: Keep a distance of 6 to 12 inches from walls or fences so that termites can not enter the home through their tunnels.
2. Keep the Proper Thickness: Apply a 2 to 3-inch thick mulch layer because up to this range can cause more moisture, attracting the termites.
3. Adopt the Right Watering method: Do not water from above the mulch rather water the plant’s roots so that the mulch can’t become too wet.
4. Make The Airy mulch: Bob the mulch periodically to improve air circulation and balance the moisture level in it to prevent termites.
5. Remove the Wooden Materials from the Garden: Do not keep big pieces of wood, boards, or other wooden materials. You can move them to a dry place to protect both; plants and other wooden materials in the garden.
6. Do not use pesticides: Many experts recommend avoiding pesticides, as they can damage essential nutrients in the soil and mulch.
7. Try to Use the Best Mulch to Prevent Termites Naturally: The last and most important consideration should be to use mulch that is moderately or completely unattractive to termites. Not sure which mulch is better for termite prevention? Let’s find out together!

Which mulch is the Best and safest option for preventing termites?

I have considered that many gardeners are concerned about termite disturbance in their gardens due to their moist microclimate. This problem increases if there are woody plants or materials.

Using mulch is also necessary and may be optional at some. So, choosing the right mulch type, especially regarding termite matter is very crucial.

Here, I will recommend some termite-resistance mulches for termites that can be completely undesirable if you use them properly (as mentioned earlier).

1-Cedar Mulch

Cedar mulch can be the top option to prevent termites because it contains natural oil in which thujone is considered toxic to them. Its warm, woody, earthy, and slightly spicy scent is very helpful in repelling them effectively.

Additionally, it decomposes slowly, making it less tempting for termites. With other considerations, also care about kids and pets as it can be toxic to pets when they raw it.

2-Cypress Mulch

Another compelling option is to prevent termites naturally. It is also filled with oils along with chemicals (cypressene) that are toxic to termites.

Cypress mulch may be a good choice for your landscaping due to its properties; asthenic pleasure, and resistance to decay.

Just keep it in mind to buy mostly heartwood (free from chemicals) because sapwood (outer wood) can still be favorable for termites.

3-Redwood Mulch

Redwood mulch has natural resins, preventing termites. It is a softwood stem that takes a longer time to decay and is also often used on railway tracks.

But, if its layers are applied too thick (up to 3 inches), it can become a habitat for termites.

I have found redwood mulch made from old heartwood has more natural resins, increasing the chances of termite prevention.

Remember to use it in thick chunks to balance the moisture level.

4-Coca Bean Mulch

An incredible option to prevent termites due to their strong aroma but, can attract termites when coca bean mulch is too wet. You can also use it by mixing it with other termite-resistant mulches, for example, applying a barrier under mulching or mixing other organic or stone mulches.

Just avoid overwatering regarding coca mulch and water the plants from their roots, not the above. Remember, coca can be harmful to pets, especially to dogs.

5-Eucalyptus Mulch

Eucalyptus mulch is also considered a safer choice among gardeners than the other mulch types. Many studies have proven that termites do not eat eucalyptus mulch.

However, termites often be seen in eucalyptus mulch but, it is not a food source for them, preventing them from the areas.

Eucalyptus mulch can be a nice option than other organic mulches.

6-Rubber Mulch

Indeed, rubber mulch is a termite-resistant mulch because it doesn’t provide any food to them, but some gardeners are facing issues like a bad smell and less effective results (only stops weeds).

Rubber mulch also prevents diseases like algae and fungi which can attract snails.

It can be more expensive than other mulch. So, it depends on your purpose and preference.

Do not use it for vegetables and fruits that are eaten, because it is made from recycled tires, having chemicals. Also, do not use it near fire as rubber mulch can release toxic smoke.

7-Pine Straw

Pine straw is generally not attractive for termites due to its low moisture content. It also has a higher acidity level than other mulch, making it more specific.

But it can hold fire rapidly and blow away in strong winds. In addition, pine straw is favorable for snakes if it is layered out of the house or near the road path.

If you live in a snake-prone area, you must have to consider other mulch options.

Other Inorganic Mulches That Are Less Attractive for Termites

Some other inorganic mulches include pebbles, gravel, and lava rocks. They are termite-proof and do not offer any food source to them.

Inorganic mulch are better than organic mulch (made from organic materials like wood) because they not decay or retain moisture.

Final Thoughts: Tips to Use Best Mulch For Termite Prevention

So, that was the termites’ resistant mulch list and recommendation. Now some tips you need to follow along with choosing termite-proof mulch.

First, don’t use mulch near the wall or fence. Keep 8 to 12 inches distance between the barrier or building’ foundation (wall or fence) and mulch layer.

Make only a 2 to 3 inches thick mulch layer so that moisture level can be managed to prevent termites.

When watering, only water the plant’s roots instead of directly to the mulch.

If termites pre-exist in your garden mulch, avoid using pesticides as experts mentioned it is not good for soil and mulch health.

Yes, you haven’t been controlling termites beyond the doing all tips, you should seek professional or local service. Thank you!

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