permaculture

["Permaculture West" <permawest@olywa.net>]

        I am curious about the chemical constituents in cedar wood.  What
specifically is in the wood that makes it so rot and pest resistant?  What
effect would the chips have if applied to the soil as a mulch (pH, growth
retardent, etc.)?  Are there any fungi or saprophytes that co-exist with
cedar that could possibly be used to break down wood chips?  
        Please, no anecdotal information.  I prefer referenced or cited facts.

                                                                Regards,
                                                                Kirk Hanson

Kirk Hanson
C/O Permaculture West
72 Mattson Rd.
Oakville, WA 98568
ph./fx. (360) 273-7117
e-mail: permawest@olywa.net