🌿 Mulch Calculator
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Mulch Types & Cost
| Type | Cost/Yard | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood Bark | $30-45 | 1-2 years | Flower beds, trees |
| Cedar | $35-50 | 2-3 years | Pest resistance, gardens |
| Pine Straw | $25-35 | 6-12 months | Acidic soil, slopes |
| Rubber Mulch | $80-120 | 10+ years | Playgrounds, low maintenance |
| River Rock | $50-80 | Permanent | Paths, drainage areas |
| Dyed (red/black) | $30-45 | 1-2 years | Curb appeal, formal beds |
Mulch Coverage Guide
One cubic yard of mulch covers approximately 162 square feet at 2 inches deep, 108 sq ft at 3 inches, and 81 sq ft at 4 inches. A standard bag of mulch is 2 cubic feet and covers about 8 square feet at 3 inches deep. For areas over 200 sq ft, buying by the cubic yard (bulk delivery) is 40-60% cheaper per cubic foot than bagged mulch.
The ideal mulch depth is 2-4 inches. Less than 2 inches does not suppress weeds effectively. More than 4 inches traps moisture against plant stems and can cause rot. Keep mulch 3-4 inches away from tree trunks and plant stems — mulch volcanoes (piled against trunks) kill trees slowly by trapping moisture and encouraging bark decay.