QuestionI was reading some of the postings that were about termites and termite invasions in the home, and I was wondering why no one mentioned using cedar to block out Termites. Isn't it true that cedar is a natural insect repellent? I have also heard it specifically can be used to repel termites. If not, would you please explain, if you know?
AnswerQuick followup: This Science news report on developments in the Termites problem:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2003/11/031124072220.htm
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Cedar Chips and Cedar Oil repel many insect pests. Mixed with Borate, it is a popular Wasp control. Cedar repels clothes Moths in the closet and flour Mothers in the Pantry. Around the perimiter of a house, Cedar Chips discourage Chinchbugs, Pillbugs, Ants, Fleas and Termites.
But for Termite protection, even Cedar or Redwood mulch should be set at least a foot from a foundation.
University of Nebraska Coop Extension (http://lancaster.unl.edu/home/Articles/2002/Termites.htm) points out Cedar Chips around the house perimeter can actually do more harm than good: "Wood chips made of redwood, cypress or cedar will be somewhat termite resistant, but, over time, the naturally occurring resins in these materials will leach into the soil and termites will readily feed on these mulches."
Several companies have sprung up using organic insect controls - CedarCide is one with termite products (http://www.cedarcide.com/). But these are refined and not reliably permanent measures - and in most cases they repel but do not kill insects on their own, including termites. For a structure without a current problem or one that has been treated, I think they are a great idea. To solve a problem now, there are other more reliable, albeit more costly, alternatives - and of course, if you can eliminate them from your lawn, you don't have to worry about getting them in your house.
That's my humble opinion. In a year, maybe new research will give us even better choices. Anything is better than pesticides - anything, that is, that works.
