Using Cedar Mulch: Pros and Cons

Cedar mulch offers an excellent option when it comes to perennial flower beds and other landscape gardens. Cedar mulch and other wood mulches help improve the structure of the soil, while keeping the beds warmer and hindering the growth of weeds. As with all mulches, cedar has a series of advantages and disadvantages.

The Advantages of Cedar Mulch

Cedar mulch, as well as other bark and wood mulches, are quite long lasting and break down over time to provide added nutrients to the soil. Cedar mulches also discourage insects from taking up residence in the garden, thus making the use of insecticides unnecessary. Cedar mulch is also readily available in most nurseries and garden centers and presents an organic and cost-effective option for mulches. It is also an effective way to keep the soil moist by keeping water from evaporating.

The Disadvantages of Cedar Mulch

Although cedar mulch breaks down and is organic, it takes longer to break down than alternative bark mulches or wood mulches. Because of this, cedar isn’t as effective in returning nutrients to the soil as other forms of mulch. Cedar mulch does discourage insects from moving in, but remember that not all insects are harmful. Cedar mulch may discourage beneficial insects as well as traditional pests from entering the garden.