Content

• The type of cedar used in mulch varies, depending on where you live. In Colorado, for example, most sources sell red cedar mulch, which isn't cedar at all, but juniper or arborvitae. The best cedar mulch is one made from local resources whenever possible to reduce the costs associated with transporting the mulch from other parts of the country.
  
  

Product

• Cedar mulch is often sold shredded or in chips. Both have potential benefits and drawbacks. Shredded mulch is lightweight and easy to install. It has a webbed consistency that reduces water loss. However, shredded bark decomposes quickly because of its fine texture. Wood-chip cedar mulch may have irregular pieces of varying sizes. It decomposes more slowly but is heavier and more cumbersome to install.
  
  

Processing

• The best cedar mulch may be arborist mulch, according to Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott of Washington State University. Arborist mulch is the byproduct of tree trimming services. Many communities give arborist mulch away free. In addition to being economical, arborist mulch is made from all parts of the tree, including leaves, bark and inner wood. This combination of materials provides excellent weed retention without the compaction seen in more uniform pieces of wood.
  
  

Disease and Toxins

• The best cedar mulch is free of disease or toxins. Inspect the mulch before buying it. The mulch should be free of mold and fungus or any unpleasant odor. Cedar mulch when stored improperly may develop chemicals, such as ammonia, that are toxic when the mulch is applied to plants. Toxic mulch has a vinegar or silage odor. Avoid buying toxic mulch or else spread it out on a driveway or patio for a few days before applying it to plants. This process leaches the chemicals out of the mulch.