While the material itself does not draw termites to the area, mulch spread over three inches deep creates an inviting habitat for the pests. Layers of organic matter trap heat and moisture next to the ground. Termites use this thick mulch as shelter from harsh weather. Some kinds of mulch may even repel termites.
Organic mulch, such as wood chips, bark, or leaves, is the best choice for keeping termites away from your garden. Inorganic mulches, such as gravel, pebbles, or rubber, are also effective at repelling termites, but they don't offer the same long-term benefits as organic mulches.
While mulch is great, it also creates an ideal environment for pests like termites to congregate. The mulch shields them from the elements so that they can thrive. For this reason, it's not always the best idea to lay mulch right next to your home's foundation.
Termites in mulch piles are possible only if the pile is constantly kept very moist. A more realistic termite risk is caused by piling mulch too high up against your siding so that it provides a bridge over the termiticide treated foundation and into the house.
Putting wood chips mulch in your yard won't start a termite problem. If you already have a termite problem, take care of it with a natural treatment before adding a ton of mulch to your yard and keep mulch 6-12 inches from your foundation to avoid issues. Remember some mulches prevent and eliminate termites!
Pesticides are designed to kill, which is why you should avoid spraying it on your mulch at all costs. As we mentioned earlier, you can actually avoid dealing with termites by choosing types of mulch that are termite-resistant.
Unlike mulch, rock doesn't decay and will last for years. Fewer pests: Because mulch is made of wood, it tends to attract pets, some of which can wreak havoc on your house; termites, for example. Conversely, with rocks, there's no need to worry about pests, because it doesn't attract bugs or insects.
But, generally, using organic mulch made from wood chips or bark will be the best choice. It's one of the easiest and least expensive ways to ensure the long-term health and fertility of your soil and the health of your trees and shrubs.
It's extremely rare for termites to be present in bagged mulch brought in from big box stores or from commercial companies, as termites rarely survive the wood shredding process. Instead, termites live in the soil, and then seek out food sources. Mulch simply provides conditions that help them thrive.
The good news is that no, mulch does not “cause” termites. First, it's highly unlikely for termites to spread via infested bags of mulch. While it is possible to find termites in a bag of mulch, it is rare. Furthermore, it's doubtful that these termites would even survive long living in the mulch bags.
Avoid laying mulch just before major rainfall of very windy weather, as these weather conditions might cause some of your mulch to run off or blow away. The heavier the much is and the longer it's been in place, the more it will settle and not be at risk of blowing away.
When using mulch in your landscape, there is no need for the use of artificial weed barrier such as plastic or landscape fabric. These materials do not work and are not weed barriers. They are only necessary under stone. That is to prevent the soil from mixing with the stone.
While the material itself does not draw termites to the area, mulch spread over three inches deep creates an inviting habitat for the pests. Layers of organic matter trap heat and moisture next to the ground. Termites use this thick mulch as shelter from harsh weather.
Landscaping mulch keeps the environment moist. This is a benefit of mulch since this moisture is perfect for growing flowers, shrubs, trees, and grass. But termites are attracted to this moisture as well as various other bugs and insects.
There are two main chemicals used to kill termites—fipronil and hexaflumuron. Fipronil is the specially designed chemical used as an active ingredient in many different liquid termiticides. In high enough concentrations, it can kill termites on contact. Pest control specialists apply it around the perimeter of homes.
Termites are a serious problem in your walls, but they're perfectly normal in your yard.
Overall, black mulch appears to be one of the most conducive colors for attracting insects. One of the biggest mulch decisions is whether to use organic or inorganic materials.
Termites nest belowground and need two things to survive and develop: moisture and cellulose. Cellulose, or lignocellulose, is the basic component of the cell walls of plants. High moisture levels and available food sources make gardens an ideal place for termites to invade, especially during droughty periods.
Apply a Pre-Emergent:
This is the time to prevent weeds. Apply the pre-emergent before mulching. A second application later on ensures protection from weed seeds.
Many prefer brown as the most natural-looking mulch but will make exceptions and use black mulch in a very targeted way in a specific area of the yard.
Wood chips and bark are the most common types of mulch, but you can even use stones to good effect. In most cases, mulch greatly simplifies your gardening chores.
Laying gravel around the house as a foundation landscaping material helps ensure your foundation stays protected from outside elements. Along with its protective nature, gravel landscaping ideas and gravel provides a natural look that can be spruced up to fit your overall landscaping style and rock landscaping ideas.
Avoid using mulch and large rocks in your landscape, as they attract snakes and their prey and can create breeding and overwintering habitat. Instead, use smaller, tight-fitting rock such as gravel or river rock. Also avoid landscaping with water gardens and Koi ponds.
To solve patio problems like this, a landscaper will remove pavers and add new soil and pea gravel. As a result, water will run away from your foundation, and water pooling problems will disappear. In many basement water situations, a professional is the only person who can properly diagnose the problem.