Does Cypress Mulch Attract Termites?
Cypress wood, well known to repel insects such as clothes moths, fails to repel termites. Cypress wood attracts termites if the mulch is more than 2 inches deep, encouraging the termites to burrow into it. Does this Spark an idea?
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Significance
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The smell of any type of mulch, including mulch advertised with termite-repelling properties, attracts termites. Termites seek out wood, no matter what type or what form it is in.
Types
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Termites live in cypress mulch made from sapwood, or the wood under the bark. Mulch made from cypress heartwood kills termites, but by then the termites have already been attracted to your property.
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Misconception
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Even cypress mulch in use at homes that have been treated for termites attracts termites. Mulch acts as a bridge over the treated areas of the home.
Prevention
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Since cypress mulch attracts termites, use only thin layers of mulch less than 2 inches deep. Do not allow the mulch to touch the house or any wooden structures, or the termites can enter the home through the mulch.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit cypress swamp image by William Knapp from Fotolia.com
