We use Hemlock or sometimes a Hemlock blend(cheaper, but also has pine). Cant beat the smell. Got some big a$$ red ants one year that I think came from the mulch but made short work of them.
That orange cedar mulch is expensive and stains everything. If you put down plastic or something the weeds will just grow on top. Matter of fact I think they will grow no matter what you do. Little round up works.
But not near any shrubs or flowers. Rake it out and turn it over once in great while and hand pick the ones that still grow. Try not to let the lawnmower discharge blow onto it as it will just seed a new batch of weeds and grass. Edging around the mulch beds helps alot. Better hurry, the fish will be here soon!