Termites in Mulch? Should We be Concerned?

There's a fast spreading story circulating about termite infested wood from Hurricane Katrine being turned into termite infested mulch. They do have had a termite problem in Louisiana, but all wood waste from the infested areas has been quarantined. And the mulching process to make wood chips is usually enough to kill a colony of termites. They say that reputable mulch sources will not be purchasing this wood. So although it is always possible, it is very improbable. The best defense is to purchase your mulch from a reliable source.

What makes this report particularly scary it that the termites in question are Formosan termites. Formosan termites cause damage even faster than our native subterranean termites and they have been known to attack more than 47 plant species, in addition to posing a threat to our homes. According to Texas A&M University's Center for Urban and Structural Entomology, "They have also been known to eat through non-cellulose material, such as thin sheets of soft metal (lead or copper), asphalt, plaster, creosote, rubber, and plastic, searching for food and moisture."

Of more concern is the sale of used railroad ties. Despite the creosote, Formosan termites can survive in the center of railroad ties, where the creosote doesn't reach. According to Texas Cooperative Extension, "Texas recently enacted a quarantine for this type of wood coming from Formosan-infested areas; however they are still in the process of developing enforcement protocols and Dr. Merchant is unaware of whether inspections and stop-sale orders have yet to be enacted."

For the whole text, check the About Gardening Forum Posting where this was discussed.