Termite-Proof Landscaping
Here's a new twist on landscape design. While you're out getting
your hands dirty in the yard, and puzzling over what looks best
where, have you ever considered the termite factor? You could be
making your home extra-appealing and accessible to hungry hordes
of termites, according to The Washington Post. That's especially
worrisome this year in many parts of the country that experienced
a mild winter followed by a wet spring--perfect termite
conditions.
The first step in termite-proof landscaping is to avoid planting
close to the foundation. Dead growth on shrubs and trees attract
termites. They love cellulose, the main ingredient in plant
matter, which means any kind of wood--especially pines, oaks and
maples, followed by evergreens. But don't give them anything to
munch on. Don't plant anything close to the house, even ground
cover. Keep a safety margin of at least 18 inches.
Mulch also can be a problem, forming a nice layer of delectable,
decomposing termite food. It may look great but it only takes
one wet season for mulch to biodegrade into termite fodder. Use
harder, inedible alternatives such as rock or flagstone. Place
tightly-butted flagstones around the base of the home, or a
heavy-gauge plastic sheet covered by rocks.
Remember, in addition to food, the other thing termites need is a
ready source of moisture. Make sure the ground slopes away from
the foundation to carry off excess rainwater. That's also a
basic precaution for avoiding unwanted leaks or moisture in the
basement.
If your home has received a termite treatment from a pest control
company in recent years, you'll also want to avoid deep digging
around the foundation. The main principle of termite treatment
is creating a barrier of pesticide-treated soil that prevents
termites from reaching the house. Termite treatments can remain
effective for 10-20 years but not if the barrier is disturbed by
deep digging or earth-moving near the foundation.
Large trees should not be any closer than 20 feet because the
extensive root system and tree stump are enough to form a highway
to your home, although some controversy exists over whether the
termites are too preoccupied munching the tree to bother with
another food source. Of course, you may not have any choice
about tree placement anyway if a stately oak or maple already
stands next to your home. It's just one of the many
considerations in placing new trees.
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