The decision to purchase mulch in bulk, often measured by the “scoop” at a landscape supplier, offers a cost-effective alternative to buying numerous individual bags. This method is standard for larger landscaping projects requiring extensive coverage. Understanding the actual volume and the factors influencing the price of this bulk unit is the first step toward accurately budgeting. Analyzing the cost of a scoop requires looking beyond the single price tag to the specific material, delivery logistics, and required quantity.
Understanding the Standard Mulch Scoop
The term “scoop” in the landscaping industry does not refer to a precise, universally standardized measurement like a cubic yard. It represents the volume of material held by the bucket of a front-end loader or skid-steer used by the supplier. Because equipment size varies, the volume of a scoop can fluctuate significantly between businesses.
Typically, a bulk scoop of mulch is equivalent to approximately \(1.25\) to \(1.5\) cubic yards, though some smaller loaders may only handle \(2/3\) of a cubic yard. One cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet of material. Customers should always confirm the exact cubic yard conversion with their specific supplier to ensure they are getting the expected volume.
Average Price Ranges Based on Mulch Type
The price of a scoop is determined primarily by the type of wood and the processing it undergoes, with costs generally calculated per cubic yard. Basic natural hardwood mulch, often double-shredded and undyed, typically falls in the range of \(\\)27$ to \(\\)40$ per cubic yard. This material is the most economical choice for large-area coverage.
Dyed mulches, such as black, red, or dark brown, command a slightly higher price due to the added cost of non-toxic colorants. These options usually cost between \(\\)35$ and \(\\)55$ per cubic yard. Premium materials, like cedar, cypress, or pine bark, are priced higher, often ranging from \(\\)40$ to over \(\\)100$ per cubic yard. For example, a \(1.25\)-cubic-yard scoop of mid-range dyed mulch priced at \(\\)40$ per cubic yard would cost approximately \(\\)50$.
Premium products are more expensive because of their sourcing, slower rate of decomposition, and properties like natural insect repellency in cedar. The price difference reflects the longevity and aesthetic value of the material.
Variables That Change the Final Price
While the material type sets the base price, several logistical and market factors cause the final cost per scoop to fluctuate.
Delivery and Volume
Delivery fees represent a major variable, as suppliers typically charge a flat rate for residential drop-offs. This fee can range from \(\\)70$ to \(\\)140$ for a local delivery, regardless of the order size. The delivery cost is often more economical when purchasing a larger volume, as the flat fee is spread across more material. Many suppliers also offer volume discounts, providing a reduced per-scoop price for orders exceeding a certain threshold, such as five or ten cubic yards. Checking for local pickup options eliminates the delivery fee entirely.
Regional and Seasonal Factors
Regional economics also play a role, as the local availability of wood waste and labor costs influence the final product price. Furthermore, the time of year impacts pricing; costs may be higher during the peak spring landscaping season when demand is at its maximum.
Calculating How Many Scoops You Need
Determining the number of scoops required for a project begins with establishing the correct application depth. This depth is important for plant health and weed suppression. For general landscape beds, a depth of two to three inches is recommended to retain soil moisture and block sunlight from reaching weed seeds. Coarser mulches can be applied slightly thicker, up to four inches, around established trees and shrubs.
The calculation for volume starts with the area to be covered. The required cubic yards are found by multiplying the total area in square feet by the desired depth in feet, and then dividing that result by 27. For example, a \(100\)-square-foot area at a three-inch depth requires approximately \(0.77\) cubic yards.
Once the total cubic yards needed is known, that number is divided by the supplier’s specific scoop volume to determine the quantity to order. If a customer needs three cubic yards and the supplier’s scoop is \(1.25\) cubic yards, the order requires three scoops.