Barkdust, often referred to as wood chips or mulch, is a common organic material used in landscaping to cover the soil surface. Its function is multifaceted, providing benefits for plant health and garden maintenance. Barkdust suppresses weed growth by blocking sunlight, which reduces competition for water and nutrients. The material also helps reduce water evaporation, retaining moisture and lessening the need for frequent watering.
Understanding the Cubic Yard Unit
When purchasing bulk barkdust, the material is measured and sold in a unit of volume known as the cubic yard (CY). A cubic yard is a three-dimensional measurement equal to three feet long, three feet wide, and three feet high, totaling 27 cubic feet.
Volume is the preferred unit of measurement for landscaping products rather than weight. The weight of barkdust fluctuates dramatically depending on its moisture content; a wet load weighs substantially more than a dry load, even if the amount of material is the same. Selling by volume ensures the customer receives a consistent amount of material regardless of how wet or dry the product is at the time of delivery.
Determining Effective Application Depth
Before calculating the total volume needed, the desired application depth must be determined, as this variable directly influences the final quantity purchased. For general maintenance, such as refreshing existing beds, a layer of two to three inches is recommended. This depth is sufficient to regulate soil temperature and conserve moisture.
When applying barkdust to bare soil for the first time or where heavy weed suppression is required, a thicker layer of three to four inches is more effective. Applying the material too thinly (less than two inches) may fail to block enough sunlight, allowing weeds to germinate. Conversely, a layer that is too thick, especially against the base of trees or plant stems, can trap excessive moisture and lead to stem rot or attract pests.
Calculating Your Total Volume Needs
Determining the required cubic yards begins with precise measurements of the area. Start by multiplying the length by the width of the planting bed to find the total area in square feet. Next, the desired application depth, measured in inches, must be converted into feet to maintain a consistent unit of measure. For example, a three-inch depth is converted to 0.25 feet by dividing three by twelve.
To calculate the total cubic feet needed, multiply the total square footage by the depth in feet. If you have a 100 square foot area and plan for a three-inch depth (0.25 feet), the total cubic feet is 25 cubic feet (100 sq ft \(\times\) 0.25 ft). Convert this cubic footage into cubic yards by dividing the total cubic feet by 27, since one cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet. Using the example, 25 cubic feet divided by 27 equals approximately 0.93 cubic yards.
Since bulk material is not sold in fractional units, it is advised to round the final result up to the nearest whole or half-yard when ordering. Rounding up accounts for material settling and provides a small buffer for irregular areas. Ordering slightly more material ensures you complete the project without the inconvenience of scheduling a second delivery.