Ordering too much mulch is a waste of money, but ordering too little means a second delivery fee. Whether you're using bags or bulk delivery, getting the math right is the first step to a beautiful landscape.
Step 1: Simplify the Shape
Most flower beds aren't perfect squares. They curve and wind around trees. The trick is to break your garden down into rough rectangles. Measure the "average" length and "average" width of each section. If a bed is 10 feet wide at one end and 4 feet wide at the other, use 7 feet as your width.
Step 2: Choose Your Depth
Depth matters more than you think. Here is the standard advice:
- 2 Inches: Aesthetic only. Good for refreshing existing mulch.
- 3 Inches (Recommended): The sweet spot. Prevents weeds and retains moisture.
- 4+ Inches: Risky. Can suffocate plant roots and invite pests.
Step 3: Cubic Yards vs. Bags
Bags: Sold in 2 cubic feet (mostly). Easy to handle, but more expensive.
Bulk: Sold by the Cubic Yard (27 cubic feet). Cheaper for large projects, but requires
a truck or delivery fee.
Rule of thumb: If you need more than 15 bags, bulk delivery is usually cheaper.