Question
Hi - My county gives free mulch away.  I'm alittle nervious about using "untreated" mulch in my yard.  It looks ok to me, but should i put something on it to kill bugs termites etc.  Thanks!!

Answer
Hi Deann,
Fresh shredded mulch is not likely to have termites, but it
wouldn't hurt to spray it with a little permethrin.  I'm more concerned with the age of the mulch.  If it's still warm to the touch, it's not done curing yet.  Freshly ground mulch will rob your soil of nitrogen and the tannic acid released will plummet your pH locking up nutrients. Your plants will suffer.  Other than that, it's okay and the price is right.  Jim