What Is Cypress Mulch
Cypress mulch is made from shredded bald cypress or pond cypress wood. Like cedar, it contains natural oils (cypressene) that resist decay and repel insects. Cypress mulch has a distinctive blonde to light brown color that darkens to silver gray over time. It’s especially popular in the Southeast where cypress trees are abundant.
Why Choose Cypress
Cypress mulch interlocks when shredded, which means it stays in place on slopes and in areas with heavy rain better than bark nuggets or loose chips. This makes it the top choice for sloped beds, drainage areas, and flood-prone landscapes. It also mats down less than other shredded mulches, maintaining better water and air penetration to the soil.
The Sustainability Question
There’s a legitimate environmental concern with cypress mulch. Old-growth cypress forests in Louisiana and Florida have been heavily logged for mulch production. Look for products labeled “pond cypress” (a faster-growing species managed on plantations) rather than “bald cypress” (old-growth). Or consider cedar as an alternative with similar properties from more sustainable sources.
