Hello Matthew,

You're thinking creatively and resourcefully — love that! Using wood from your box elder tree can be a great way to recycle, but there are a few significant risks to consider before spreading those chips across your garden:

Potential Risks of Using Fresh Wood Chips

Pathogen Survival: Studies have shown that specific tree pathogens, such as Thyronectria austroamericana, can survive in uncomposted wood chips for over two years and remain infectious. More information at this link:

tree_pathogen_survival_mulch.pdf (SECURED)

If your tree has any fungal infections, those could potentially spread to other plants.

Verticillium Wilt: Research from UW-Madison found that wood chips from infected trees can harbor Verticillium dahliae, which causes wilt in many woody and herbaceous plants. More information at this link:

Wood Mulch and Tree Health – Wisconsin Horticulture

Sour Mulch Syndrome: Improperly stored mulch can ferment anaerobically, producing toxic gases like methanol and ethanol. This “sour mulch” can bleach or kill nearby plants. More information at this link:

Toxic Mulch Problems | University of Maryland Extension

Insect Issues: While most insects in mulch are harmless decomposers, earwigs and termites may be attracted to decaying wood. Termites are less of a concern in Michigan, but it’s wise to keep mulch away from your home’s foundation. More information at this link:

Wood Mulch and Tree Health – Wisconsin Horticulture

Nutrient Tie-Up: Fresh wood chips have a high carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, which can temporarily deplete nitrogen in the soil, especially if mixed in rather than used as surface mulch. More information at this link:

Question: Can The Mulch Made By Tree Stumps Be Mixed Into The Surrounding Soil For New Plants? | Purdue Extension Forestry & Natural Resources

Wood chips for mulch? | OSU Extension Service

Safer Ways to Use the Wood

Compost First: Let the chips age for at least 6–12 months before using them as mulch. This reduces pathogen viability and balances the nutrient profile.

Use Away from Sensitive Plants: Apply aged mulch around trees and shrubs rather than annuals or vegetables, which are more sensitive to nutrient imbalances.

Keep Mulch Dry and Aerated: Store chips in a loose pile to prevent the formation of sour mulch. If it smells like vinegar or ammonia, let it air out before use. More information at this link:

Toxic Mulch Problems | University of Maryland Extension

Firewood Use: Box elder burns quickly and isn’t ideal for long fires, but it’s fine for kindling or outdoor use. Just inspect for signs of rot or insect infestation.

Slabs or Crafts: If the wood has an interesting grain or color, it can be milled into rustic furniture or art. Just be sure it’s properly dried and treated.

If you’re unsure whether your tree has any diseases, you might consider sending a sample to your local extension office or plant pathology lab.

This link will explain the details on submitting a sample to the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab:

Submit Samples - Plant & Pest Diagnostics

I hope this helps!