Mulch Calculator

Mulch prices vary significantly by type, quality, and purchase method. Here are current 2026 market rates:

Bulk Mulch Prices (Per Cubic Yard):

Bagged Mulch Prices (2026):

Delivery Charges:

Bulk delivery usually requires 2+ cubic yard minimum. Many suppliers offer free delivery over certain quantities.

Use these tables to quickly estimate mulch needs based on common bed sizes and depths:

Coverage per Cubic Yard by Depth:

Quick Reference - Common Bed Sizes at 3" Depth:

Tree Ring Coverage (3" Depth):

Different mulch types serve different purposes. Choose based on your specific needs:

Organic Wood Mulches:

Inorganic Mulches:

Mulch Lifespan Comparison:

Proper mulch depth varies by application. Too little allows weeds; too much suffocates roots:

Standard Depth Guidelines:

Why Depth Matters:

Special Considerations:

• Clay soils: Use thinner mulch (2-3") to allow moisture penetration
• Sandy soils: Can use thicker mulch (3-4") for moisture retention
• Wet areas: Use coarser mulch for drainage; avoid fine shreds that mat
• Slopes: Use coarser mulch that won't wash away; consider rubber or stone

Choosing between bulk delivery and bagged mulch affects cost, convenience, and labor:

Cost Comparison (2026 Prices):

Bulk Mulch Advantages:

• Significantly cheaper for 3+ cubic yards
• No individual bag disposal
• Fresh product, better moisture content
• Easier to spread (no bag opening)
• Less packaging waste

Bagged Mulch Advantages:

• No delivery scheduling required
• Transport in personal vehicle
• Store unused bags for later
• Precise quantity control
• Available same-day at store

When to Choose Bulk:

• Projects over 3 cubic yards
• Full property mulching
• Multiple beds to cover
• Trailer or truck available for pickup
• Willing to schedule delivery

When to Choose Bagged:

• Small touch-up projects
• Limited vehicle capacity
• Need product immediately
• Tight access to bed locations
• Want to spread work over time

Mulch is heavier than many expect, especially when wet. Plan transportation carefully:

Weight per Cubic Yard (Dry):

Wet Mulch Warning: After rain, wood mulch can weigh 50-100% more:

Vehicle Capacity Guidelines:

Pro Tip: Most standard pickup beds hold about 2 cubic yards of mulch by volume, but the weight may exceed your vehicle's payload rating. Check your door jamb sticker for payload capacity.

Proper installation maximizes mulch benefits and longevity:

Before Installing:

1. Remove existing weeds and debris completely
2. Edge beds with spade or mechanical edger
3. Install landscape fabric in problem weed areas (optional)
4. Rake soil smooth and level
5. Water soil lightly if dusty

Installation Steps:

1. Dump mulch in small piles throughout the bed
2. Spread from back to front using a rake
3. Maintain consistent depth (use depth markers if needed)
4. Keep mulch 3-6 inches away from plant stems
5. Keep mulch 6-12 inches away from tree trunks
6. Taper mulch thinner at bed edges
7. Don't pile mulch against house siding or foundation

Mulch Ring Sizing for Trees:

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Timing your mulch application affects weed suppression, moisture management, and plant health:

Spring Mulching (March-May):

Why Spring is Best:

• Blocks weed seeds before germination
• Retains winter moisture for summer
• Soil is workable but not dry
• Most mulch products readily available
• Prices competitive before peak season

Fall Mulching (September-November):

Summer Mulching Considerations:

• Avoid if possible (weeds already up)
• Remove weeds before mulching
• Water deeply before applying
• Mulch cools hot soil (good for roots)
• Keep thinner on already-wet soil

Mulch Maintenance Calendar:

Most landscape beds aren't perfect rectangles. Here's how to calculate odd shapes:

Rectangle/Square:

Area = Length × Width
Example: 15' × 8' = 120 sq ft

Triangle:

Area = (Base × Height) ÷ 2
Example: 10' base × 6' height ÷ 2 = 30 sq ft

Circle (Tree Rings):

Area = π × Radius²
Area = 3.14 × (Diameter ÷ 2)²
Example: 6' diameter = 3.14 × 3² = 28.3 sq ft

Oval/Ellipse:

Area = π × (Length ÷ 2) × (Width ÷ 2)
Example: 10' × 6' oval = 3.14 × 5 × 3 = 47.1 sq ft

Curved Beds (Divide and Conquer):

1. Break the bed into simpler shapes
2. Calculate each section separately
3. Add all sections together
4. Add 10-15% for irregular edges

Example: L-Shaped Bed

Section A: 15' × 6' = 90 sq ft
Section B: 8' × 4' = 32 sq ft
Total: 122 sq ft
At 3" depth: 122 ÷ 108 = 1.13 cubic yards
Add 15%: 1.3 cubic yards to order

Quick Area Estimating for Curves:

• Measure the overall rectangle that would contain the bed
• Estimate what percentage is actually planted
• Multiply rectangle area × percentage
• Example: 20' × 10' = 200 sq ft × 70% = 140 sq ft actual