Mulch is a layer of material applied to the surface of soil, serving several beneficial functions in landscaping and gardening. Its primary purpose is to conserve soil moisture by reducing evaporation, which is helpful during dry periods. Applying mulch also helps suppress unwanted weeds by blocking sunlight from reaching the soil beneath it. The method of purchasing this material varies significantly depending on the project scope and the specific material chosen.
Understanding the Types of Mulch Available
Mulch composition falls into two broad categories: organic and inorganic materials. Organic mulches are derived from once-living sources, such as shredded hardwood bark, wood chips, pine needles, or straw. These materials decompose over time, naturally enriching the soil structure and providing beneficial microbes. Because of this gradual decomposition, organic materials must be replenished periodically to maintain the desired depth and coverage.
In contrast, inorganic mulches include materials like gravel, river stones, rubber chips, or plastic sheeting. These options do not break down, offering a longer-lasting solution for suppressing weeds and retaining moisture. Inorganic materials are inert; they will not add nutrients or change the soil’s chemistry over time. Dyed wood chips are commonly found at garden centers, while large quantities of decorative stone are sourced from specialized stone yards or landscape suppliers.
The Two Primary Sales Methods: Bagged Versus Bulk
Once a material is selected, consumers choose between purchasing mulch in pre-packaged bags or in loose, bulk quantities. Bagged mulch is the standard option for smaller projects, sold primarily by volume, with the most common size being 2 cubic feet. This method offers high convenience, making it easy to transport via a standard passenger vehicle and store neatly. Big box stores and local nurseries are the primary retailers for bagged products, appealing to homeowners with limited needs.
Bulk mulch is sold by the cubic yard, which represents 27 cubic feet of material. This quantity is equivalent to thirteen and a half standard 2-cubic-foot bags, intended for significant landscaping efforts. Landscape supply yards and specialized material companies are the typical sources for bulk material, which requires specialized handling and delivery.
Purchasing in bulk is generally more cost-effective per unit of volume because the price does not include the expenses associated with packaging, branding, and individual handling. While the upfront cost for a cubic yard is higher than a single bag, the price per cubic foot is significantly lower, offering substantial savings for extensive coverage areas. The decision between bagged convenience and bulk economy is often determined by the scale of the area needing coverage.
Determining Quantity and Delivery Logistics
Before purchase, the quantity of mulch required must be accurately calculated to ensure complete coverage without excess waste. This calculation involves multiplying the total square footage of the area by the desired depth of the mulch layer. A common application depth of three inches is recommended to effectively suppress weeds and maximize water retention. The result must then be converted into the appropriate sales unit: cubic feet for bags or cubic yards for bulk.
A standard cubic yard of material covers 100 square feet at a three-inch depth, providing a simple reference for bulk purchases. Consumers can estimate that seven 2-cubic-foot bags will cover approximately 50 square feet at the same depth. Understanding this conversion is useful when comparing the total project cost between the two sales methods. After the quantity is finalized, the buyer must address the logistical challenge of moving the material.
For bulk orders, the two main options are self-pickup or professional delivery. Self-pickup requires a truck or trailer capable of safely hauling hundreds or thousands of pounds of loose material, demanding careful consideration of the vehicle’s payload capacity. Delivery involves the supplier using a dump truck to deposit the material directly onto the buyer’s driveway or a designated tarp. Delivery services usually involve a separate fee and sometimes require a minimum order, and the buyer must clearly mark the exact dumping location for the driver.