Mulch Calculator
Mulch Depth Guide
2-3 inches
Best for flower beds and around plants
3-4 inches
Ideal for paths and general landscaping
Avoid > 4 inches
Too deep can suffocate roots and trap moisture
Mulch Benefits
Related Calculators
Complete Mulch Guide
Types of Mulch
Organic Mulches
- Wood chips: Long-lasting, natural look
- Bark mulch: Decorative, slow to decompose
- Shredded leaves: Free, adds nutrients
- Straw: Great for vegetable gardens
- Pine needles: Acidic, good for certain plants
Inorganic Mulches
- Rubber mulch: Long-lasting, playgrounds
- River rock: Permanent, modern look
- Pea gravel: Good drainage
- Lava rock: Lightweight, colorful
- Landscape fabric: Under other mulches
Coverage Guide
| Depth | Sq Ft per Yard | 2 cu ft Bags per 100 sq ft |
|---|---|---|
| 2 inches | 162 | 9 |
| 3 inches | 108 | 13 |
| 4 inches | 81 | 17 |
When to Mulch
Spring
Best time to add mulch. Wait until soil warms, then apply to retain moisture and suppress spring weeds.
Fall
Add mulch to protect roots from winter cold and prevent frost heaving. Apply after first frost.
Application Tips
- Keep mulch 2-3" away from tree trunks and plant stems
- Don't pile mulch against buildings (can cause moisture problems)
- Remove weeds before applying mulch
- Refresh mulch annually—organic mulches decompose
- Water after applying to help mulch settle
- Consider using landscape fabric under mulch for weed control
- Bulk mulch is usually 50% cheaper than bags for large areas
Bags vs. Bulk
Bagged Mulch
- Best for small projects (<2 cubic yards)
- Easier to transport and store
- Cleaner, more consistent product
- Higher cost per cubic foot
Bulk Delivery
- Best for large projects (>2 cubic yards)
- 30-50% cost savings
- Need space for delivery pile
- Requires wheelbarrow to spread
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should mulch be?
Apply 2-4 inches of mulch for most landscaping. Use 2 inches around annuals and perennials, 3-4 inches for trees and shrubs. Avoid exceeding 4 inches as it can prevent water from reaching roots and cause rot.
How much area does a cubic yard of mulch cover?
One cubic yard covers: 162 sq ft at 2 inches deep, 108 sq ft at 3 inches deep, or 81 sq ft at 4 inches deep. A standard 2 cubic foot bag covers about 12 sq ft at 2 inches.
Is bulk mulch cheaper than bags?
Yes, bulk mulch typically costs 30-50% less than bagged. Bulk is economical for areas over 200 sq ft (about 2+ cubic yards). For smaller projects, bags are more convenient despite the higher cost per cubic foot.
How often should I replace mulch?
Refresh organic mulch annually as it decomposes. You may only need to top off existing mulch rather than fully replace it. Inorganic mulches (rubber, rock) last indefinitely but may need occasional cleaning or repositioning.