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Termites in mulched beds
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Q. A friend told me not to put mulch next to the foundation of my house since it can lead to a termite problem. Does wood mulch attract termites? Are stone mulches safer to use in place of shredded mulch?A. Termites –
also known as subterranean termites – are soil-dwelling insects that
require even soil moisture and protection from temperature extremes
to thrive. You may be surprised to learn that pea gravel and river
rock used as mulch near buildings are just as likely to support
termites as wood-based mulches. Although termites sometimes feed on
wood mulch, it is not a preferred food source because it has low
nutritional value for them. Mulch of all kinds can create a perfect
environment for termite activity because it helps maintain soil
moisture and moderates soil temperatures. Since moisture is the main
attractant, the type of wood mulch used makes no difference. The
amount of mulch is a more important factor.
A two-inch layer of mulch is sufficient to obtain its benefits for
plants – maintaining soil moisture, moderating soil temperatures,
and keeping weeds down. Wood-based mulches have the added benefit of
adding organic matter to the soil as they break down. Mulch becomes
a problem when we use too much of it, because the underlying soil
never gets a chance to dry out, which increases its attractiveness
to termites looking for a place to call home. People who add a few
inches of fresh mulch every year so that it looks nice can easily
wind up with excessively thick layers of mulch around their plants
and near their houses. In addition to creating a perfect environment
for termites, excessive mulch around plants is not good for them,
either. A better approach is to rake out the existing mulch and only
add fresh mulch in places where there is less than two inches.
Properly used wood mulch is so beneficial to plants that fear of
termites should not preclude its use in the landscape.
Avoid piling lumber or firewood next to a structure, which could
provide an easy route for termites into the building. It is also
important that any wooden parts of a structure are at least six
inches above the soil. Even treated wood can be damaged by termites
because they can exploit tiny cracks and crevices to get into the
center of the piece, where the treatment may not penetrate.
If you see signs of termite activity, including the mud tubes termites build to get from place to place, damaged wood that has been hollowed out along the grain, or if you see a swarm of winged termites or evidence they have swarmed in your house such as shed wings, contact an exterminator. Termites can be tough to manage, and materials available to homeowners may not provide sufficient control. Get at least three estimates for pest control work, and do not be bullied into choosing a company quickly. Although they are damaging, termites will not bring your house down overnight. Make sure the company you choose has insurance, proper pesticide licensing, and that they guarantee their termite treatments. MORE |
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Landscape
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