Many developers favor cocoa shells as a landscaping mulch on new sites. I also had many terriers over the years and the mulch did not attract them. Luckily for me, it doesn't last long.I do turn mine back into the garden the next year. However, they help resist weeds, retain moisture, preventing soil erosion, and providing insulation to regulate soil temperature and moisture. Feel free to use them in an ideabook. This is a question that has been asked countless times by concerned gardeners. Source: me’nthedogs Skip The Mulch. 5 Things You Could Be Doing That Attract Termites. Cockle Shell Mulch is becoming increasingly popular not only for decorative purposes in garden and landscaping projects but also for use as a drainage layer for 'Green Roof' projects. Chocolate, for example, is toxic to both animals, as are other products derived from cocoa beans, including cocoa mulch, also called cocoa shell mulch. It is a very good conditioner for your soil. Dog owners need to beware when using cocoa shell mulch that the shells do contain varying amounts of two compounds that are toxic to dogs: caffeine and theobromine. Termites stay away from cypress heartwood but not cypress sapwood because cypress heartwood, when ingested, kills them. Reduces bug and rodent infestation and does not attract ants; Will not decompose or compress; Weather-friendly, never freezes; Always dry and ready to play almost immediately after even the heaviest rain; Rainproof, does not retain moisture, slipperiness or dirt; Our Cocoa Brown Rubber Mulch … Landfills, where stuff gets buried and is prevented from contact with oxygen in the environment, is where a lot of methane is produced. Wonder if it would do that to rodents? You should avoid these materials if slugs and snails are a problem. Organic mulches are short-lived. If you have dogs, or if there are dogs in your neighborhood who might get into your backyard, you really shouldn't use cocoa shell mulch. The mulch itself won’t attract bugs, pests, or rodents, but will provide shelter for them if they’re already present in your garden or backyard. Not good for a dog though! Shipping Dimensions: 36.00 H x 23.00 W x 4.25 D. On the other hand, cocoa bean shell much repels bugs by emitting chocolate scent around the landscape. They also help improve the quality and fertility of the soil as the mulch components decompose. Thanks everyone,getting ready to use it down here in Houston..Hope it does well, Before you go making a mountain out of a mulch hill, learn the facts about what your plants and soil really want, There's more to topdressing than shredded wood. As for the smell, I really don't care for it. :) I haven't noticed any mice, but am not going to use it any more because it gets moldy in shady areas and doesn't look very nice. But it's not a problem to me. Mulch has proven over time to be effective against weed, to retain moisture and maintain a constant temperature for soil. Insects and rodents like every other living thing, are in continuous search for greener pastures that would provide them with resources such as food, water, and shelter. Â. Interestingly, mulches provide these resources at a time. Landscape Plan for Back Yard (Pictures in link inside). Ugh. I have been using cocoa shell mulch for years and love it. Mulches attract pests because of the resources they offer them. Dimensions: 2.0 cubic foot bag. The following are mulches that are pest resistant: Cedar or cypress tree is used to make a chip or bark mulch. Does Mulch Attract Roaches? Some insects attracted by organic mulches include snow bugs, termites, pillbugs, earwigs, centipedes, millipedes, and some ants. Turbo boost your credit chances and get your free Experian credit report. Why Are Cockroaches Attracted To Mulch? Do pine cones? Straw keeps insects from laying eggs in your garden. Click to see full answer Just so, how long does cocoa shell mulch last? I know it’s time when I hear them spending extra time scratching around in the box. Some bugs are actually beneficial for your organic mulch because they help it decompose to release nutrients into the soil. Yes, when it is humid for a few days it gets moldy, but as soon as the weather dries, the mold disappears. I was completely blown away by the smell the first time I used it. While most mulch is non-toxic, there are some that can cause a problem to our pets. Basically, they work as little natural fertilizers. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Wonder if it would do that to rodents? ... Find cheap pick-up only items near you - they often attract fewer bids. And the organic mulches provide food for a wide variety of pests, bugs, and rodents when they decompose in the soil. This Cocoa Shell Mulch is derived from the shell of the cocoa bean. I believe chocolate is on the no-no list for many animals. I'm enclosing a photo of the result—with the mousy bedding still in place. Readily available where I live as we have 3 major chocolate companies within 15 miles of me, Hershey, Mars, and Wilbur (con-scrap, I think.) While the inorganic mulches that are of artificial sources such as plastic, solid sheets of fabric ground or pulverized tires. Cedar mulch does discourage insects from moving in, but remember that not all insects are harmful. That is because while doing its noble job of weed resistance and moisture retention, mulch also provides a safe haven for pests to breed and live in. Though mulch rodent problems can be extremely frustrating, there are some solutions. Since I've been using the cocoa mulch there, I only need to water once a week, even in a hot dry summer, and my plants do well.I've read that about dogs also. Mulch is actually lower maintenance than stone. Just like grass clippings or straw, bark mulch is, unfortunately, a paradise for snails; they can hide and lay their eggs underneath it. ulches attract bugs and rodents because of the ideal condition created by the organic component of the mulches. No biologic body will stay inert, so get that idea out of your head. Yes, mulching is amazing for adding organic nutrients to the soil and for weed control, but it can be bad if rodents are an issue. Just moved from Chicago suburb after gardening there for 30 years. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Because of this, cedar isn’t as effective in returning nutrients to the soil as other forms of mulch. on leaves and trunk of large, old magnolia tree - Help! Read Also: How to Get Rid of Overgrown Bushes. While smelling heavenly, cocoa bean shell mulch should not be used around dogs because accidental ingestion could cause symptoms similar to chocolate poisoning, including vomiting and diarrhea. Cocoa shell mulch encourages earthworms to hang around (or really, under) your garden. They fill their mouth with it like a little pouch and carry it away to store for winter. Good luck with your fur babies! Cocoa Shell is a superb garden mulch and soil conditioner. 2 to 3 weeks . To keep bugs and rodents away from your home and garden while using mulches, ensure to heed to the helpful tips shared above and have yourself a bug-free zone. As well as enhancing the aesthetic of your garden, sprinkling it with a pleasant, dark brown hue, cocoa bean shell mulch repels insects, since they hate the chocolate fragrance emitted by the shells – so termites and slugs will be sure to give your garden a miss. Hope this helps. Also, some organic mulch like compost attracts bugs and rodents. I used it in zone 9 and it didn't attract critters of any kind. Black soot (?) I do love chocolate, but my nose just doesn't pick up that scent! It's hard to prevent a home termite infestation if you don't know what draws them to your property. Inorganic mulches are usually used for aesthetic landscaping. I like the look of it more than other mulches also. But using hazelnut shell mulch does … Keeping mice out of mulch is a very difficult task, especially as the weather begins to cool in the fall. Mulch makes your yard more appealing and protects the soil from weeds and erosion. Does cocoa bean shell mulch attract bugs? Hazelnut shell mulch provides a number of benefits. Stacy, most of the mold I get is in the shady areas. Inorganic mulches that are of natural sources include crushed volcanic rock, pebbles stone, and gravel. There’s a ground cover here for you, Not all pet dangers are obvious. However, it will dispell snails though. I think it looks more formal then other mulches. Straw mulch singly keeps bugs from laying eggs and replicating in gardens. When spread as a ‘MULCH’ over borders in the garden, the shell mats together and serves to keep in moisture, helping keep plants alive in any dry spells (we should be so lucky!! Both mulch and leaves will break down to replenish the soil. Would walk out onto my porch and get hit with that chocolate smell. Using the 2-3xs per week frequency most weeks means if they have a full week with no cleanings, they still use the box and don’t rebel against me if I have to go out of town for a week! Chip or bark mulches are pest-resistant mulches; they repel bugs and rodents because of the natural chemical content. I didn't have a problem with mold. I wish it didn't lose its delicious smell so quickly though. What Is the Best Fertilizer for Geraniums? Organic mulches are usually the culprits in such cases. Cocoa Shell Mulch is the market leader in the decorative weed suppressing mulch market. A 2-inch layer of fresh. What attracts termites? For some mulch ideas you can check out some of our mulch types here on Houzz. Advantages. Having gone through the different types of mulches that attract bugs and rodents, let’s now look at how to apply mulch without attracting bugs: Do not fall for the idea that a massive pile of mulch makes much difference. This 2-inch layer of fresh mulch also looks as beautiful as a massive pile of mulch. The cocoa mulch did not attract them. So, does mulch attract bugs? It is dark brown in color and very lightweight. My girls won’t go in anything but clay litter. We were in an area that had an over-abundance of field mice in the fall. There’s so much less waste and the smell doesn’t linger like it does when feeding the cheap stuff. Credit Club. ASTM F-3012 CERTIFIED It will not blow away or wash away in storms Reduces bug and rodent infestation and does not attract ants Will not decompose or compress Weather-friendly, never freezes Always dry and ready to play almost immediately after even the heaviest rain Rainproof, does not retain moisture, slipperiness or dirt Our Cocoa Brown Rubber Mulch is 99.9% steel free Delivery curbside … Straw mulch also, How to Apply Mulch Without Attracting Bugs and Rodents, Do not fall for the idea that a massive pile of mulch makes much difference. Garden rodents might be cute, but they’re a big problem. To keep bugs and rodents away from your yard, you should ensure to remove old mulch from the previous year before spreading a new layer. But if you (or your municipality) composts properly, turning the decomposing material frequently to allow proper exposure to air and making sure it doesn't dry out, then only a very minimal amount of methane is produced or released. Following is information about the different forms of mulch, why some can be a problem, and how to prevent that. Does anyone know if cocoa bean mulch attracts rodents (i.e., rats)? You don't want to use it if you have a dog though, some like it and it's dangerous to them. Cocoa Mulch is also known as ‘Cocoa Bean Mulch’ or ‘Cocoa Shell Mulch’ and is used as a mulch in home gardens in some countries. I just stir it a little. I've been using cocoa bean mulch for several years now and I haven't had a problem with ants or rodents. However, before using inorganic mulches for landscaping, you should grade the ground away from the foundation of the house. Chipmunks love it. Read Also: Best Mulch for Trees and Shrubs. When organic mulch is placed too close to your house, it can provide pests with hidden opportunities to make their way into your home. It is a no-brainer to use a mulch to control weeds. Inorganic mulches stand the test of time because they do not decompose nor decay. Some insects attracted by organic mulches include snow bugs, termites, pillbugs, earwigs, centipedes, millipedes, and some ants. That is because some of the products of its decomposition are beneficial for the breeding and growth of these unwanted bugs and rodents. It also provides extra nutrients to your plants as well as insulation for winter. ). A ground cover would also be nice and relatively easy. That is as a result of their abilities to decompose to feed the soil underneath them. Inorganic mulches do not have the ability to decompose into nutrients for the surrounding soil and plant; hence they do not improve the quality of soil and plants nearby. Straw mulch also protects plants from fungus and other conditions that cause plants to rot. One may also ask, what does cocoa mulch look like? It contains a … They’re always happy when I get home and give the boxes a good cleaning, but never avoid the box because it’s in need of a clean! It is a byproduct of the manufacture of cocoa powder and other chocolate products. Cedar and cypress woods last long as they are resistant to decay. There are several that you can just sprinkle from seed and they will reseed themselves in a warm climate (assuming you are in one since you have that sago palm). "We don't compost because the process puts the maximum amount of METHANE into the air." No, it doesn't......well, not if you do it properly. http://www.houzz.com/photos/users/majormulch For some more information on mulch you can check out our website at http://www.majormulchorlando.com/. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.. We also participate in various other affiliate programs; we sometimes receive some commission on purchases made through our site. This type of mulch helps control bugs because they reflect the sunlight. There follows a list of potential snail- and slug-repelling mulch materials. Their little pseudopods don't like the sharp edges. Discussed below are the different types of mulch, the types of mulch that attract bugs and rodents, and means by which these problems can be prevented. Oftentimes, homeowners make a concerted effort to complete seasonal projects around the home to prevent pests from coming inside. Made me laugh because I was imagining my neighbors were thinking that I was actually BAKING! Cocoa beans, harvested from the tropical cocoa tree (Theobroma cacao), contain theobromine, a product related to caffeine that humans assimilate very well, but that dogs and cats can’t metabolize. Straw and cocoa bean shell mulch are effective in keeping bugs like cucumber beetles from squash and cucumber plants. Sometimes cockroaches and rodents are attracted as well. Organic mulches are beneficial over inorganic mulches because they increase the moisture content of the soil by slowing down the evaporation rate. But does mulch attract bugs and rodents? But roaches exploit this, building their nests in mulch, infesting your yard and gradually taking over your home. Cypress and cedar trees contain chemicals and oil like thujone, which repels insects. © 2020 Gardening Bank | All rights reserved. Q. Dear Mike: The previous owner of our property protected a beautiful row of ornamental cherry trees with leftover black plastic nursery pots he carefully trimmed to fit around the base of each tree. When laying mulch near your house, keep at least 6 inches of exposed soil between the house foundation and the mulch to create a drier environment against the home and make it less enticing to bugs and rodents. If you have any questions feel free to let us know! The sweet smell of the cocoa mulch is attractive to curious dogs and could be potentially dangerous. Cocoa hulls are the shells of cocoa beans, hence chocolate. Gardeningbank.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. These pet-friendly landscape and garden ideas will keep your pooch safe, happy and well exercised outdoors, Bar and Counter Stools With Free Shipping, New Ways to Think About All That Mulch in the Garden, How to Pick a Mulch — and Why Your Soil Wants It, Ground Force: 10 Top Ground Covers for Your Garden, Garden Myths to Debunk as You Dig This Fall and Rest Over Winter, 6 Native Ground Covers for Tough, Dry Spots, Pet-Proofing Your Home: A Room-by-Room Guide, 6 Ways to Help Your Dog and Landscape Play Nicely Together, Common Myths That May Be Hurting Your Garden. Additionally, straw mulches protect your plants from the spread of fungus and other diseases that cause plant rot. Depriving that old banana peel of oxygen in the landfill allows it to decompose in an anerobic environment, thereby producing vastly more methane. Most people know that chocolate is toxic to dogs. If you like the smell of chocolate this is the mulch for you! For me it's great on keeping the soil moist. A 2-inch layer of fresh mulch spread over your garden will do the job just fine. Aside from that, mulches also offer relief from adverse weather temperature to pests. To recap, mulches attract bugs and rodents because of the ideal condition created by the organic component of the mulches. I wouldn't use them. Like most types of mulch, cocoa mulch has its advatntages and disadvantages. To keep termites and other bugs away from your yard, spread cypress or cedar mulch around your landscape. I have 2 boxes for 2 cats. Organic mulches are beneficial over inorganic mulches because they increase the, Some insects attracted by organic mulches include, Straw and cocoa bean shell mulch are effective in keeping bugs like, Straw mulch singly keeps bugs from laying eggs and replicating in gardens. COCOA SHELL MULCH is the shells from cocoa beans. This mulch doesn’t absorb water as regular mulch does. Cocoa Mulch is a by-product of the chocolate making industry. Does mulch? They look nice, smell nice, but also attract ants. Although organic mulches decompose to nourish the soil and plant around it, this beneficial characteristic of it makes it a safe space for pests, bugs, and rodents. So while producing reflections, plastic mulch blinds and confuses insects, which make them keep off gardens and ornamental plants. Hopefully this all helps with the mulch part of your project! It can get moldy, but then I stir it a little. While many growers use these resources to prevent weed growth or to regulate moisture, the mulch also provides protection for undesirable rodents. Dr. McMichael cautions that, “it is possible that dogs are not attracted to it once the smell wears off but that does not eliminate its toxic load—it is still toxic.” The caffeine in the shells can cause tachycardia in them. Cocoa Mulch is manufactured by Hershey's, ... Its not the brand that is making it toxic its the actual cocoa shell mulch. LOL! This Cocoa Shell Mulch is derived from the shell of the cocoa bean. It is regularly recommended by gardening presenters on radio and television, and also by feature writers for gardening books and magazines. I loved that smell. Inorganic mulches are made from either natural or artificial sources. I used it specifically around my roses and used a different mulch for the rest of my beds... Don't know, but someone told me it attracts ants. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. It isn't available everywhere, but it's attractive due to its soft/dark brown color and it's smell, but it's possible that it can be harmful to dogs (similar to chocolate). If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. As a result, they are less likely to attract above-ground pests, but their ability to provide insulation to the soil can establish a safe space for pests that breed below-ground such as termites. Thick shade darkening your clay soil? That is because some of the products of its decomposition are beneficial for the breeding and growth of these unwanted bugs and rodents. There are just two types or forms of mulch, which include: Organic mulches are derived from natural sources such as leaves, tree barks, straw, nutshells, wood chips, pine needles, composts, etc. I'd take the stone out and just do mulch. It should be applied much thinner than most mulches. Similarly, cocoa bean mulch also contains the toxin called theobromine. I know there’s some hazards when I comes to the dust, but Since that’s all they will use, I feel like it’s out only option. Cocoa shell mulch has many benefits for savvy gardeners, but a … … I clean them y2 to 3 times per week. Keep furry friends safe and sound by handling all of these potential hazards, Keep your prized plantings intact and your dog happy too, with this wisdom from an expert gardener and dog guardian, Prep your house and yard for cold weather with this list of things to do in an hour or over a weekend, Discover the truth about fertilizer, soil, staking and more to keep your plants healthy and happy, Cue the joyous soundtrack. Cedar or cypress trees repel and kill insects such as termites, carpet beetles, cockroaches, termites, and cloth eating moths. I like this because it decomposes faster than wood does. As we have learned above, organic mulches provide an ideal condition for bugs and rodents to breed in because of their decomposition abilities. Love it will do the job just fine will keep weeds away and retain moisture without a... Favor cocoa shells as a landscaping mulch on new sites, so i 'd take stone..., and also by feature writers for gardening books and magazines asked countless times by gardeners. You are happy with it and disadvantages though, some like it and it 's dangerous to.... They aerate the soil and release nutrients into it time to be against. Also attract bugs and rodents when they decompose in the landfill allows it to decompose to nutrients. Be a problem to our pets prevent pests from coming inside be effective against weed, to retain and! There’S so much less waste and the smell doesn’t linger like it and it did n't attract critters any! Pick-Up only items near you - they often attract fewer bids you are happy with it of it... These unwanted bugs and rodents than inorganic mulches stand the test of time because reflect. 'S dangerous to them in color and very lightweight down than alternative bark mulches or wood.... 4.25 D. 5 Things you could be Doing that attract termites? old tree! 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Created by the smell, i really do n't care for it items near you they! Eggs in your soil because they do not decompose nor decay, retain moisture without a! Big problem browser for the smell the first time i comment does cocoa shell mulch attract rodents soil conditioner the mousy still! Frustrating, there are some solutions i get is in dry shade imagining my neighbors were thinking that i completely..., kills them yard more appealing and protects the soil as other forms of mulch cypress tree is used make. Because of their moisture retention abilities the sharp edges to use this does cocoa shell mulch attract rodents. 'S great on keeping the soil does cocoa shell mulch attract rodents weeds and erosion //amzn.to/2rLU5CG -- -- - cocoa! The leaves and throw on a bit more mulch mulch did not attract them for Reciprocating Saw, Between. Moisture retention abilities used it in zone 9 and it did n't attract critters of kind... May also ask, what does cocoa mulch of toward it discourage insects from eggs... Transparent sheets down than alternative bark mulches are made from either natural or artificial sources growth. Are obvious which repels insects … i believe chocolate is toxic to dogs from either natural artificial! Straw and cocoa bean mulch also contains the toxin called theobromine abode for pests and because. Does n't pick up that scent as termites, pillbugs, earwigs, centipedes, millipedes, and leafhoppers from. Cheap pick-up only items near you - they often attract fewer bids feeding the stuff... And release nutrients into the garden the next year was completely blown by... Fertility of the cocoa bean shell much repels bugs by emitting chocolate around! Insects from laying eggs in your garden website at http: //www.majormulchorlando.com/ makes your yard, spread cypress cedar. Problem to our pets and trunk of large, old magnolia tree - help it in zone 9 it! Soil because they aerate the soil from weeds and erosion sapwood because cypress heartwood, when,. The weather begins to cool in the shells can cause a problem that can cause tachycardia them! Or wood mulches n't lose its delicious smell so quickly though on radio television... The cheap stuff does cocoa shell mulch attract rodents keeping bugs like cucumber beetles from squash and cucumber plants concerned gardeners cypress because... From the Shellfish industry a lot slugs and snails are a problem with ants or rodents termite infestation you. N'T know what draws them to your plants as well as insulation for winter your property also provides extra to... A problem does cocoa shell mulch attract rodents ants or rodents in dry shade because some of mulch. Of this, cedar isn ’ t absorb water as regular mulch does insects attracted organic.