The cost of six cubic yards of mulch varies widely based on the material, regional location, and supplier. Six cubic yards is a substantial quantity, making purchasing in bulk from a local landscape supplier the most economical approach. A cubic yard represents 27 cubic feet. Understanding the factors that influence the price per cubic yard is necessary before determining the final project expense.
Material and Quality Variables
The primary determinant of the material cost is the source of the wood or organic matter used to create the mulch. Economy-grade bulk mulch is often produced from mixed hardwood scraps, recycled pallets, or other byproduct materials that are readily available in the local area. These options provide the benefit of moisture retention and weed suppression at a lower price point. Conversely, premium varieties like cedar or cypress mulch command a greater price because they are derived from specific types of wood that offer natural resistance to decay and insects.
The manufacturing process also affects the final price. Virgin wood products, such as those from freshly debarked trees, are generally more expensive than those made from recycled wood waste. The addition of colorants, which create popular red, black, or dark brown dyed mulches, also increases the cost. These dyes require an extra processing step and specialized materials, raising the cost per cubic yard compared to a natural, undyed option.
Determining Required Volume
Verifying the correct amount involves a calculation based on the coverage area and desired depth. The volume in cubic yards is determined by multiplying the area’s length, width, and depth (in feet), and then dividing the total by 27. Most landscape professionals suggest an application depth of two to three inches to effectively suppress weeds and conserve soil moisture.
The coverage area changes based on the application depth. Six cubic yards applied at the standard three-inch depth covers approximately 648 square feet. Reducing the depth to two inches extends the coverage of that same volume to roughly 972 square feet. This difference highlights the importance of precise measurement, as overestimating the required depth can lead to the purchase of excess material.
Typical Price Ranges for Six Yards
The cost for six cubic yards of material alone can range from the low hundreds to nearly a thousand dollars, depending on the type selected. Economy-grade shredded hardwood, the least expensive option, typically sells for $25 to $50 per cubic yard. Six cubic yards of this basic material results in a total material cost between $150 and $300.
Mid-range products, such as dyed hardwood or bark mulches, generally cost between $40 and $80 per cubic yard. A six-yard quantity of these options costs between $240 and $480.
Premium Mulches
Premium mulches, including cedar or cypress, are often priced at $100 to $150 per cubic yard due to their inherent qualities. A six-yard purchase of these types typically costs between $600 and $900 for the material alone.
Delivery and Ancillary Fees
The material cost is only one part of the total expenditure, as moving six cubic yards introduces additional fees. Delivery charges are typically a flat rate, ranging from $20 to over $150, though some suppliers calculate the fee based on distance or order size. The volume requires a dump truck delivery, and many bulk suppliers have a minimum order requirement.
Suppliers often charge additional fees for situations that complicate delivery. A fuel surcharge may be applied to offset transportation costs, or an extra freight charge could be added if the delivery location is remote or difficult to access. Bulk purchasing offers a significant cost saving per cubic foot compared to buying the equivalent volume in bags, even after accounting for the delivery fee.