A cubic yard is the standard measurement for bulk landscaping materials, representing a volume of 27 cubic feet (a cube measuring three feet on each side). The material cost for one cubic yard of bulk mulch typically falls within a broad range of $30 to $110, depending heavily on the specific material and your location. Most homeowners purchasing standard shredded hardwood mulch can expect to pay between $40 and $60 per cubic yard for the material alone.
The Average Price of One Cubic Yard
Economy-grade or standard shredded hardwood mulches generally cost between $30 and $55 per cubic yard when purchased in bulk from a local supplier. These are often simple wood byproducts and provide excellent moisture retention and temperature regulation for the soil.
Mid-range options include dyed mulches, such as black or red, which usually cost between $40 and $65 per cubic yard. The added cost covers the permanent coloring process that helps the mulch maintain its aesthetic appeal longer.
Premium mulches, such as cedar or cypress, tend to be the most expensive, often ranging from $80 to $110 per cubic yard. These materials are valued for their natural resistance to pests and superior longevity in the landscape.
Factors Influencing Mulch Pricing
The most significant factor influencing the final price of a cubic yard is the material composition. Organic mulches, like shredded bark, are the most common and cost-effective. Specialty materials such as rubber mulch—made from recycled tires—can cost substantially more, sometimes reaching $80 to $140 per cubic yard due to the manufacturing process and durability.
The method of purchase creates a substantial price difference between buying in bulk and buying bags. A single cubic yard is equivalent to about 13 to 14 standard two-cubic-foot bags of mulch. If a bag costs $4.50, the equivalent volume in bags would cost approximately $63, while the same amount of bulk mulch might cost $45, demonstrating significant savings.
Delivery fees can dramatically inflate the total cost of a single cubic yard, especially for small orders. Suppliers often charge a flat delivery fee ranging from $70 to $140, making the per-yard cost much higher if you are only ordering one or two yards. Picking up the mulch yourself in a truck or trailer eliminates this fee, but requires the homeowner to have the proper vehicle and ability to haul a material that can weigh up to 800 pounds per yard. Regional market conditions and the supplier type—whether a large big-box store or a local landscape supply yard—also contribute to the price fluctuations.
Converting Volume to Coverage Area
A cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet of material, which is the foundational volume used to calculate coverage area. The amount of ground a single cubic yard will cover depends entirely on the depth at which the mulch is applied. For decorative purposes or refreshing an existing bed, a two-inch depth is often sufficient, allowing one cubic yard to cover approximately 162 square feet.
Increasing the application depth to three inches is widely recommended for effective weed suppression and soil moisture retention. At this depth, a single cubic yard of mulch will cover about 108 square feet. Applying the mulch at a depth of four inches is reserved for areas where aggressive weed control is necessary, such as newly established beds, covering approximately 81 square feet.
The depth of application directly relates to the mulch’s utility. A layer that is too thin will quickly break down and offer minimal weed control. Conversely, a layer that is too thick, often exceeding four inches, can impede oxygen from reaching plant roots and may hold too much moisture against plant stems, which can encourage rot. A consistent application depth of two to three inches balances the aesthetic benefits with the functional goal of improving soil health and suppressing unwanted growth.