I've added wood mulch from tree trimmers to my many pots containing roses and other plants for years. It works great to keep the soil evenly moist as well as keeping it from from splashing out when watered with a hose at a high volume. I like that it breaks down and enriches the soil over time. Never saw a termite and never had a problem with it. I think that cedar or cypress mulch would work as well.

Thank you, Roselee. I always mulched my potted plants in L.V., but I have already seen signs of termites in this yard, which is cause for concern. Previous renters or the owner used the incorrect wood for building a small garden structure. This climate/ growing environment is new to me, so I find it prudent to seek advice regarding protocols, etc.

I have tons of ants in my yard...and they're all over my roses. Is there any harm in leaving them be...or is it worthwhile to get rid of them?

Mindshift-

Thank you for your response and information. I am living in a rental home. Some of my roses are on concrete but others are sitting on top of the soil in a planter bed. I have often wondered if the roses in pots, that are sitting on top of the soil, should be placed on 12 x 12" pavers/cement instead?

Hi, Lynn. Welcome to the Austin area, bugs and all! You live in a great location, a creative and lively spot and a wonderful launching pad for old rose rustling. I think the Hill Country and especially the area around Texas A&M still boast some tenacious antiques. You are doing an amazing job of adjusting to a new region of the country and a new home state!

I'm going to chime in to the termite discussion since I grew up in TX. I wouldn't be concerned about wood/bark mulch. In my experience, 99% of termites go for structures, not chippy little pieces and parts. That last statement doesn't mean you need to worry unduly about your house, either. Just the usual precautions. I recommend keeping an eye out for mud tunnels leading up your foundation and doing annual checks under the house for signs of the buggers, keeping moisture barriers in place, keeping plumbing in non drip order, etc. Ditto all the usual carpenter ant checks. And just so you are prepared to take ant sightings in stride, know that EVERYBODY in TX has a few carpenters ants, and it becomes a point of conversation...like the crazy weather. Anyway, you're savvy, and I'm guessing you're already on top of all reasonable pest precautions.

The only pots that need to stay off the ground are wood containers. Others are fine unless you are worried about plants rooting through the drainage holes and taking up residence in the soil below. Mindshift has some good suggestions.

Best wishes for TX gardening! Keep us posted. Carol

Hi Carol!

I appreciate your input, and after reading the posts, I feel pretty confident that my roses should be okay. Our rental home was built within the past couple of decades and designed with certain calamities in mind.

I hope all is well with you and your family!

@rosecanadian, ants on plants are not automatically a problem. However, some ants herd aphids to collect honeydew, and protect the aphids from predators. The aphids can be various colors, but those on roses are usually green or pinkish. If you find aphids (usually on the undersides of leaves) you should treat the plants for aphids. Use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or insecticides with pyrethrins. Do not use systemic insecticide with imidicloprid. It is a neonicotinoid that makes the entire plant poisonous, including the flowers which means bees and butterflies will be killed.

Mindshift - Yeah, I understand about ants on plants. :) I guess I wasn't very clear...well, I know I wasn't very clear. I was wondering if their tunneling would be harmful to the roots of the roses in the pots...or if they would even eat the roots in the pots. :) Thanks!!