Q: I am considering using pine bark nuggets for mulch in a bed around the house. Is there a concern with termites in pine bark nuggets around the foundation?

A: In general, no. Although mulch makes the soil beneath it favorable for termite foraging, termites don’t particularly care for pine bark. It contains little of the cellulose that they eat. Dr. Dan Suiter, University of Georgia entomologist, says it is best to keep any mulch at least twelve inches from the foundation. This prevents termites from “bridging” over treated soil to reach your house.