Termites are a common household pest, and many homeowners fear that using cedar mulch in their garden will attract these pests. But does cedar mulch attract termites? Did you know termites like cedar mulch?
Most types of mulch are made from wood, which is a termite’s favorite food. So, it’s no surprise cedar mulch can attract these pests. Mulch is composed of cellulose which is termites’ best food.
Termites are there in mulch because they already pre-existed in your yard.
Cedar mulch has a strong scent that can deter some insects, but not all. The smell of cedar is attractive to termites.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the research on this topic and find out what the experts have to say.
What Are Termites And What Do They Eat?
Termites are small, white insects that live in colonies. These pests feed on wood and can cause serious damage to homes and other structures made of wood. Some statistics say termites cause over $5 billion in damage every year in the United States alone.
While most termites are found in the southern states, these pests can be found in all 50 states. There are three main types of termites:
- Drywood;
- Dampwood;
- Subterranean.
Drywood Termites
They are the most common type of termite found in the United States. These pests live in dry, well-ventilated areas like attics and ceilings.
Dampwood Termites
These are found in moist areas like crawl spaces and basements. These termites need a lot of moisture to survive and often live in wood that is already rotting.
Subterranean Termites
They are the most destructive type of termite. These pests live in underground colonies and tunnel through the soil to reach their food source – wood.
While all three types of termites eat wood, subterranean termites cause the most damage because they live in such large colonies. A single colony can contain up to two million termites.
What Is Cedar Mulch And Why Is It Used?
Mulch is a layer of material that is placed on top of the soil. Mulch can be made from a variety of materials, including wood chips, bark, leaves, and straw.
Mulch helps to control weeds, conserve moisture, and protect plants from extreme temperatures. Cedar mulch is made from the bark of cedar trees. This type of mulch has a reddish-brown color and a strong scent.
Cedar mulch is popular because it is effective at controlling weeds and conserving moisture. It also helps to protect plants from extreme temperatures. One downside of cedar mulch is it can attract termites.
Does Cedar Mulch Attract Termites?
Termites are attracted to cedar mulch because it is made from wood. The strong scent of cedar is also attractive to these pests. While cedar mulch can help control weeds and conserve moisture, it may not be the best choice if you’re concerned about attracting termites.
If you live in an area where termites are a problem, you may want to consider using a different type of mulch in your garden.
Why Do Termites Like Mulch So Much ?
What is the link behind this? Mulch keeps the environment moist which is something termites are looking for. Termites also like to build their nests in areas where food is abundant, and since mulch is made of wood, it makes an ideal food source for these pests.
Because mulch has cellulose, termites can easily digest it. Cellulose is an essential nutrient for these pests, and it’s found in wood, paper, and other plant materials.
How Can I Prevent Termites From Infesting My Home?
If you’re concerned about termites infesting your home, there are a few things you can do to prevent this from happening. Here are some:
- Ventilate your home often;
- Regular inspections;
- Use a different type of mulch;
- Fix any leaks in your home;
- Store firewood away from the house;
- Contact a professional pest control.
Make Sure Your Home Is Well-Ventilated
First, make sure your home is free of moisture. Keep gutters clean and repair any leaks in your roof or plumbing. This way, you can avoid creating an environment that is attractive to termites.
Inspect Your Home Regularly
You should also inspect your home regularly for signs of termites. Look for mud tubes on the exterior of your home or wood that sounds hollow when tapped. Fix any leaks in your home, and ensure all plumbing is in good working order.
If you find any of these signs, contact a professional pest control company immediately.
Remove any wood that is in contact with the ground around your home. The wood outside can be an easy way for termites to access your home. Store any firewood at least 20 feet away from your house, and remove any dead trees or stumps from your property.
Termite Resistant Mulch
If you’re concerned about attracting termites, you may want to consider using a different type of mulch in your garden. There are a variety of mulch options available, including:
- Pine straw;
- Cypress mulch;
- Hardwood mulch;
- Tea tree mulch.
Tips For Getting Rid Of Termites Inside Of Your House
If termites have already invaded your home, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them. Here are some tips:
- Liquid pesticide treatment;
- Fumigation;
- Bait system.
Liquid Pesticide Treatment
Liquid pesticide treatment is one of the most common methods for getting rid of termites. This type of treatment involves applying a pesticide to the soil around your home. The pesticide will then travel through the mud tubes the termites use to access your home.
Fumigation
Fumigation is another option for getting rid of termites. This method involves using a fumigant, which is a gas that penetrates through the wood in your home. The fumigant will kill the termites that are inside your home.
Bait System
A bait system can also be used to get rid of termites. This method involves placing bait stations around your home. The bait stations will attract the termites, and when they eat the bait, they will die.
Choose The Best Option For Your Home
There are a variety of methods to get rid of termites. Choose the best option for your home, and contact a professional if you need help.
It’s important to act quickly. These pests can cause a lot of damage to your home if they’re left unchecked.
