We recommend a two to three inch layer of organic mulch be maintained in plant beds. These mulches include those made from eucalyptus, pine bark, melaleuca, scrap lumber, recycled yard waste, and pine needles (straw). We suggest using alternatives to cypress mulch since cypress trees are slow growing native trees that play an important role in our wetland ecosystems.

Additional Resources
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FR/FR07900.pdf - Landscape Mulches: What Are The Choices in Florida?

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FR/FR00800.pdf - Cypress: Florida's Majestic and Beneficial Wetlands