Mulch Calculator

Calculate mulch needed for your garden beds, landscaping, and plant areas

Garden Area Dimensions

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Hardwood Mulch Needed

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Mulch Types & Benefits

🌳 Hardwood Mulch
$30-50/cu yd
Lifespan: 2-3 years
Best for: General landscaping
Benefits: Soil improvement
🌲 Cedar Mulch
$40-70/cu yd
Lifespan: 3-4 years
Best for: Pest control
Benefits: Natural insect repellent
🌲 Pine Bark
$35-55/cu yd
Lifespan: 2-3 years
Best for: Acid-loving plants
Benefits: Lowers soil pH
🌿 Cypress Mulch
$45-65/cu yd
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Best for: Wet areas
Benefits: Rot resistant
♻️ Rubber Mulch
$50-80/cu yd
Lifespan: 10+ years
Best for: Playgrounds
Benefits: No decomposition
🌾 Straw Mulch
$25-40/cu yd
Lifespan: 1 year
Best for: Vegetable gardens
Benefits: Quick decomposition

Benefits of Mulching

💧
Water Retention
Reduces water evaporation by up to 70%
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Weed Control
Blocks sunlight to prevent weed growth
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Temperature Control
Insulates soil from temperature extremes
🌿
Soil Health
Adds organic matter as it decomposes
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Appearance
Creates uniform, professional look
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Erosion Control
Prevents soil erosion from rain/wind

Mulching Tips & Guidelines

📏 Proper Depth

Apply 2-4 inches for most plants. Too thick can suffocate roots, too thin won't control weeds effectively.

🌳 Tree Mulching

Keep mulch 6 inches away from tree trunks to prevent rot and pest problems. Create a donut shape, not a volcano.

⏰ Best Timing

Apply mulch in late spring after soil warms up, or in fall before winter. Refresh annually or as needed.

🌿 Plant Spacing

Pull mulch back from plant stems and crowns to prevent moisture-related diseases and pest issues.

💧 Watering Considerations

Water before applying mulch. Dry mulch can repel water, so ensure soil is moist underneath.

🔄 Maintenance

Rake and fluff mulch periodically to prevent matting. Add fresh layer annually to maintain depth.