Termites in Flower Beds

Termites can be attracted to mulch or roots in flower beds.

Termites are best known for eating wood, but sometimes will also eat roots, seeds and grass. Termites may also be attracted to any wood-based mulch used in flower beds, including those made with paper or wood cellulose.

Misconception

Termites cannot live on wood mulch alone. Scouts from termite colonies are constantly on the move to find new food sources, which may include trees, wooden fences or the wood in houses and other structures.

Prevention

If termites are discovered in flower beds, remove any mulch, wood piles or low branches that are in contact with the house. The mulch or branch could act as a roadway from the flower bed to the home. Keep mulch at least 6 inches away from the home.

Treatment

Termites, which have natural enemies like birds and nematodes, do little damage to the actual flower beds. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension recommends that homeowners not attempt do-it-yourself extermination. If the termite infestation is heavy or if you are concerned about them getting into the home, contact a professional exterminator.

References

• Australian Museum: Termites
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Facts about Termites and Mulch
• "Houston Chronicle"; For termites, it's a short walk from garden to house; Kathy Huber; 2005
• University of Nebraska, Lincoln: Do-It-Yourself Termite Control is Not a Good Idea

Resources

• "New York Times"; How Termites Live on a Diet of Wood
• Texas Agricultural Extention Service: Subterranean Termites
• EcoSensorium: Grass-Eating Termites