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Can old masonite be used as a garden mulch?

I am concerned that masonite may contain chemicals that could be harmful to animals, humans or plants and is unsuitable to cut down and use as a garden mulch.

Public Comments

1. It is not the best mulch in the world.. Heaps of alkaline.. Will not break down completely for a few years.. Try and dispose of it another way..
2. Real masonite is not bonded with glue. Unlike other composite wood panels that are made using formaldehyde type resins to bond them, masonite is pressed together using only steam to soften and bond the wood fibers. Thus, being very environmental friendly. If you can break it up fairly fine it would make good mulch.
3. Although masonite may appear to be good for mulch, I would suggest against it. I think it has too many chemicals and glue in it. When I worked at a lumber yard we used to cut the stuff on a regular basis. It was smelly and very irritaing when we cut it. Try to find another use for it.
4. Considering the presence of glue and other chemicals, you would be effectively introducing to your garden soil substances which could be harmful to plants. Once introduced, such chemicals would be very difficult to eradicate. I would very much advise you not to consider such action.