Dangers of Cypress Mulch

Endangering Cypress Trees

• Cypress trees are used to create cypress mulch. In some cases, entire trees are cut down and chopped up to create the mulch. This can be a problem because the cypress tree provides a natural habitat and food source for a variety of animals, including several different species of woodpeckers, limpkins, wood ducks, wood storks, owls, bobcats and opossums.

Water Pollution

• Cypress trees also work as a natural filter in the wetlands that prevents pollutants from contaminating the water. When there are not enough cypress trees present, the environment is left vulnerable. Some counties and states, including several different areas in Florida, have significantly restricted the use of cypress mulch to protect cypress trees.

Water Absorbtion

• Cypress mulch prevents water from reaching the root systems of the plants that are covered by the mulch. According to the Suncoast Native Plant Society, dry cypress mulch naturally repels water, and when cypress mulch finally does become saturated, it is then more absorbent than other types of mulch. These qualities limit the amount of water that reaches the roots of plants covered by the mulch. If plants do not get enough water, they will fail to thrive and may die. Cypress mulch may require that plants receive more water to survive than they would using a different type of mulch, which can be a real problem in areas with water use limits or restrictions.

Termites

• Termites have been shown to be highly attracted to cypress in all its forms, including cypress mulch. By surrounding areas near your home with cypress mulch, you may be increasing the likelihood that termites will work their way into your home. Termites can cause a significant amount of damage to buildings.