[cquick]

Originally Posted by Opmoochler

I just took out wood chips in favor of stone. I was worried about termites, and the dog was chewing them up all over the yard.

we like the pine straw look. At first I didn't but it grows on you. I think river rock around the whole outside of the house for about 6-12 inches is a good idea to prevent insects.

[dadspet]

We use pine straw and it has to be replaced about twice a year. We have no concern on ticks or fire. Not crazy about replacing it twice a year but part of my reasoning is " have you noticed the Villages uses it exclusively" and there must be a reason since most people think they clearly know what they are doing. Wood clips we heard can draw termites and other insects.

[CFrance]

I think this hasn't been mentioned before, so I will throw in something to consider. Our house came with pine straw. It was in all the landscaping plus on either side of the walkway coming off the driveway and leading up to the front door. We tracked it inside by the truckloads. We replaced it with stone, which I realize you don't want, but stone does not get tracked into the house, nor does it float away into the lawn during our heavy summer storms.

[perrjojo]

Originally Posted by CFrance

I think this hasn't been mentioned before, so I will throw in something to consider. Our house came with pine straw. It was in all the landscaping plus on either side of the walkway coming off the driveway and leading up to the front door. We tracked it inside by the truckloads. We replaced it with stone, which I realize you don't want, but stone does not get tracked into the house, nor does it float away into the lawn during our heavy summer storms.

All you have said is true but it does nothing to nourish the soil. I know it's all just personnel preference....it just really all depends on what type of gardening you do.

[CFrance]

Originally Posted by perrjojo

All you have said is true but it does nothing to nourish the soil. I know it's all just personnel preference....it just really all depends on what type of gardening you do.

That's a good point, and we are not gardeners.

[looneycat]

then there's rubber mulch......
Rubber - Mulch - Landscaping - Garden Center - The Home Depot

[asianthree]

We have Stone came with the house. Not sure that I am a fan but I'm not changing out at this point in time. I will tell you where some sturdy shoes if you have to walk into the bed because they hurt your feet

[Bambi]

Article on fire risk of pine straw. Informative and the reason I use bark chips.

Pine straw much more flammable than mulch | abc11.com

[perrjojo]

Originally Posted by Bambi

Article on fire risk of pine straw. Informative and the reason I use bark chips.

Pine straw much more flammable than mulch | abc11.com

I'm sure there is an added risk of fire. We live in an area VERY prone to sink holes, possible hurricane damage and tornados. We live is the Lightning Capitol of the USA. I guess it's just a matter of personal preference and what risk one is willing to take.