Does Mulch Attract Termites?

This is a mulched border in my backyard. The little tree in the center
is a crabapple we planted last summer. It had a few tiny blooms this year!

Many homeowners worry that if they put mulch around the foundation of their home, they will attract termites to their home.

Iowa State University has a great article about mulch and termites here.

The short version: While mulch will not DRAW termites to your home, mulch is a great environment for mulch and other insects. If you are going to mulch around your foundation, leave a few inches between the end of the mulch and your home.

In general, mulch is great for your landscape. It retains moisture and helps define landscape areas. It can also help regulate soil temperatures.