$5,000,000,000/year. That’s a lot of money. But also it is estimated damage that termites cause in the US alone. So, if you’re a home or property owner, it’s important to take the necessary steps in order to prevent these pests from wreaking havoc on your investment. One way to do this is by using termite resistant mulch in your landscaping.
We’ve done the research on 11 products for you and compiled a list of the 5 best termite-resistant mulch to protect your home (and your garden) from these pesky pests and enrich your soil. The Wood Smith USA 100% Natural Cedar Shavings became our Editor’s Choice. We’ve included organic for those who are looking for an eco-friendly option as well as non-organic for those who are looking for the longest-lasting product.
More features: various bag sizes
The Wood Smith USA 100% Natural Cedar Shavings are our Editor’s Choice for the best termite-resistant mulch because they are a 100% natural product that can be used as bedding for animals or as an air freshener as the smell of the cedar is subtle but does absorb moisture and unpleasant odors. You can make your own air freshener sachet or leave it in an open container. They are also great for potted plants, both indoors and outdoors. Plus, it can come in different-sized bags and cover up to 12 potted plants.
The Wood Smith USA 100% Natural Cedar Shavings shares several similarities with one other product on the list, i.e., the NoFloat Cypress Mulch Blend making the two easily comparable. For instance, both options include shavings from trees that smell nice. They can also help with water retention for plants, whether potted or otherwise. However, where they differ is the type of tree they get their shavings from, as implied by the names. While they’re both great, your choice of termite-resistant mulch may come down to which tree scent you prefer.
More features: IPEMA-certified
Further going on with our second-best termite-resistant mulch, the Playsafer Rubber Mulch, is an excellent choice if you have a large yard as it comes in 40, 400, 1,000, and 2,000-pound bags. It is also IPEMA-certified meaning that it has been safety-tested and approved for use in playgrounds. The Playsafer Rubber Mulch is also an eco-friendly choice as it is made from recycled tires. It will not decompose or compress so there’s no need to reapply it constantly, plus the colors won’t fade, and it resists mold and mildew and provides a safe surface for playgrounds and landscaping. The Playsafer Rubber Mulch is an excellent all-around choice for termite resistance, safety, and eco-friendliness.
As the name implies, the Playsafer rubber mulch is for those who want termite-resistant mulch for a children’s playground. The red, blue, green, and brown tints available should be a great option since kids love bright colors. Furthermore, it has several other advantages. For instance, it won’t freeze in the winter, so there should be no problem with leaving it in the yard. Lastly, it’s available in huge packs, including 400 lbs, 1,000 lbs, and 2,000 lbs to match even the biggest playgrounds.
Â
More features: light brown/gold
The Cypress Mulch Blend has a pleasant cypress scent that is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. This mulch is also light brown/gold in color, making it a great decorative addition to any garden. Cypress mulch is made of wood that is resistant to rot, mold, and mildew, so you can be sure your plants will be protected. Of course, it also attracts no bugs or pests. Plus, the Cypress Mulch Blend also regulates soil temperature and retains moisture, making it an excellent choice for any gardener.
The NoFloat Cypress Mulch Blend is a perfect fit for those who want to keep termites from their flower beds and indoor plants. It’s ideal for retaining moisture when you water the plants. Furthermore, given that it includes cypress shavings, the mulch will slowly decompose. Consequently, it’ll help provide the plants and flowers with some extra nutrients as they grow. Other benefits for plant and flower parents include the fact that it will help suppress weed growth and overall reduces the maintenance you have to do.
More features: dark brown in color, 12-year color guarantee, IPEMA certified
The Rubberific Rubber Mulch is the best mulch for playgrounds because it is made from 100% recycled rubber, it is non-toxic, and it is IPEMA certified for safe use on playgrounds. The Rubberific Rubber Mulch also preserves ground moisture and prevents weed growth, keeping plants healthy. Additionally, the shredded texture of the Rubberific Rubber Mulch resembles real wood and will not fade, rot, compress, or lose its original beauty, even in harsh weather. Finally, the Rubberific Rubber Mulch will not attract termites, carpenter ants, or other damaging insects, keeping your landscape healthy and protected.
The Rubberific Rubber Mulch is one of two rubber mulch options that made it onto the list, with the other being the Playsafer Rubber Mulch. Both are made from recycled rubber, making them fairly eco-friendly. However, there are differences in pack sizes. As such, you may pick one or the other depending on the intended use. Also, there are color differences. Therefore, If you prefer red, you can go for the Playsafer Rubber mulch option. You’ll have to go with the Rubberific rubber mulch if you prefer brown.
More features: no holes
Â
The Grower’s Solution Black Plastic Mulch is the best for weed prevention because it blocks light from reaching the ground, which prevents weeds from germinating. Additionally, it reduces hoeing and cultivation, which means that you’ll spend less time weeding your garden. The black color of the mulch absorbs heat from the sun, which warms the soil and helps plants grow faster. It can be used for multiple (at least 2) seasons and is strong enough to withstand heavy use. It is great to use in your flower beds, landscaping, and gardens.
The Grower’s Solution Black Plastic Mulch is a solution for those with large vegetable gardens and a termite problem. It should help them get better yields during the harvest season by reducing competition for nutrients from weeds. Additionally, the fact that it works with an irrigation system means if you have one already installed, there’s not much to worry about during installation. The fact that it reduces how much you need to cultivate and hoe until the harvest season is another pro. Lastly, it can help block light for plants that thrive in unique conditions.
A termite-resistant mulch is an important consideration if you live in an area where these pests are common. As they can cause extensive damage to your home, it’s important to choose a mulch that will help keep them away. The best way to do this is by choosing mulch made from materials that termites don’t like to eat.
There are a few different types of mulch that termites avoid. Some of the most common include:
When choosing a termite-resistant mulch, it’s important to consider the coverage area. You’ll want to choose a mulch that is large enough to cover the area you’re trying to protect. Some mulches are available in sheets or rolls, while others are sold by the bag or cubic yard. Measure an estimate of the square footage of the area you need to mulch before making your purchase.
When choosing a termite-resistant mulch, you’ll also need to decide if you want to use it indoors or outdoors. Some mulches are better suited for indoor use, while others are more effective outdoors. For example, cedar and cypress mulches are good choices for both indoor and outdoor use, while melaleuca mulch is better suited for outdoor use. Pests
In addition to termites, there are other pests that can cause damage to your home. These pests include ants, cockroaches, and spiders. Mulches made from materials that these pests do not like to eat can help keep them away. However, if you want to target a specific type of pest such as a cockroach, consider checking our best cockroach killer gels.
Many people choose their termite-resistant mulch based on the color. Inorganic mulch, such as rubber and plastic, is available in a variety of colors. Organic mulches, such as cedar and cypress, are usually available in natural colors. Be sure to select a mulch that will complement the other materials in your landscape.
Not all mulches are created equal, and some are actually quite useless against termites. Here are a few examples of mulches that do nothing to deter or repel these pests:
If you’ve already faced termites, don’t postpone the treatment until it’s too late. We’ve compiled the best termite treatment and best termite sprays to fight these pests effectively.
There are a few things you can do to help prevent termites from damaging your home.
Taking these preventative measures will help to keep termites away from your home and reduce the risk of damage.
The signs of termites in mulch include:
-Mulch that is discolored or has a different texture than the surrounding mulch;
-Areas where the mulch is pushed up or appears to be disturbed;
-Mulch that is wet or has a musty smell;
-Mushrooms or other fungi growing in the mulch;
-Termites themselves. If you see any insects that look like white ants, they may be termites.
Mulches that contain certain materials, such as cedar or cypress, can help to repel other pests, such as ants, cockroaches, and spiders.
You should replace your termite-resistant mulch every year or two to ensure that it is still effective against these pests.
Our top pick and our Editor’s Choice is for sure the Wood Smith Cedar Shavings! This product is perfect for those who are looking for termite-resistant mulch that is also 100% natural. You can use it as bedding for animals or as an air freshener, and it comes in different-sized bags to cover up to 12 potted plants.
The Playsafer Rubber Mulch is an excellent all-around choice for termite resistance, safety, and eco-friendliness. It is made from recycled tires, which makes it an eco-friendly choice, and it will not decompose or compress. The colors won’t fade, and it resists mold and mildew.
Finally, the Cypress Mulch Blend is one of the best termite resistant mulch for both indoor and outdoor use. It has a pleasant cypress scent, is light brown/gold in color, and is resistant to rot, mold, and mildew. Plus, it also regulates soil temperature and retains moisture.