Hardwood mulch is fine for garden beds away from the house but why should you Only use cedar around the house. The fact that it is an insect-repellent also works against cedar mulch because it keeps useful insects away as well. Willow Oak Quercus Phellos At Oakland Nurseries Inc Backyard Landscaping Backyard Large Yard Landscaping I truely believe Hemlock is the best Mulch of natural wood heratige. Hemlock mulch pros and cons . During warm weather soil under cover of mulch stays cooler and retains moisture longer than uncovered ground which reduces the need for. It helps the soil in your garden and landscaping beds to retain more moisture. The hardwoods seem to layer rot and do not break down fast at all. One of the problems that outdoor flowers and plants must control is moisture retention. It breaks down nicely each year to fine black organic soil. This product also works well as a garden mulch. Just the Right Temperature. Neither mulch product will usually igni...