Mulch Calculator

Apply 2-4 inches (5-10cm) of mulch around trees, shrubs, and garden beds. Deeper than 4 inches can suffocate roots and trap excess moisture causing rot. Keep mulch 3-6 inches (8-15cm) away from tree trunks and plant stems to prevent disease. Mulch settles 20-30% over time, so apply slightly deeper than desired final depth. Pathways can handle 4-6 inches for better weed suppression and durability.

One cubic yard covers: 324 sq ft (30 m²) at 1" deep, 162 sq ft (15 m²) at 2", 108 sq ft (10 m²) at 3", or 54 sq ft (5 m²) at 6". Standard 2 cu ft bags cover: 12 sq ft at 2" or 8 sq ft at 3". You need 13.5 bags (2 cu ft each) to equal one cubic yard. Bulk mulch is more economical for areas over 500 sq ft.

Bulk mulch prices: USA $25-50 per cubic yard; Canada C$35-60; UK £35-70/m³; Australia A$50-100/m³. Bagged mulch at retail: $3-6 per 2 cu ft bag. Premium mulches (cedar, colored, rubber) cost 50-100% more. Delivery adds $50-100 per load. Free mulch may be available from tree services or municipal composting programs—quality varies. Bulk is significantly cheaper for large areas.

Shredded hardwood is versatile and affordable—decomposes slowly, stays in place. Cedar/cypress naturally resists insects and decay but costs more. Pine bark works well for acid-loving plants. Rubber mulch lasts longest but doesn't improve soil. Cocoa hulls look attractive but toxic to dogs. For vegetable gardens, straw or compost adds nutrients. Match mulch to your needs: appearance, durability, soil improvement, or pest resistance.

Replenish mulch annually or when it breaks down below 2 inches (5cm). Most organic mulches last 1-2 years before decomposing into soil (which is beneficial). Cedar and cypress last 2-3 years. Rubber mulch lasts 10+ years but doesn't improve soil. In spring, fluff existing mulch with a rake before adding new layers. Remove and replace if mulch becomes matted, smells sour, or develops fungus from poor drainage.

Landscape fabric isn't necessary and can cause problems: prevents mulch from enriching soil, roots grow into fabric, and weeds eventually grow on top anyway. Better approach: apply mulch directly at 3-4 inches deep for weed suppression. Use fabric only under inorganic materials like gravel or rubber mulch where you don't want decomposition. Cardboard or newspaper works as temporary, biodegradable weed barrier under organic mulch.