Mulch coverage depends on the application and installation depth. One cubic yard covers about 108 square feet at a 3-inch depth or 162 square feet at a 2-inch depth. Use 2–3 inches in standard beds, 3–4 inches around trees, and 6–12 inches of engineered wood fiber on playgrounds.
Pick the right mulch for beds, trees, or playgrounds and order the right number of yards.
Weight
Weight
~400–800 lb per cubic yard
Density
15–30 lb/ft³
Coverage
1 cubic yard of mulch covers ~108 sq ft at 3″ depth or 162 sq ft at 2″.
How do I calculate how much mulch I need?
For standard beds, apply 2–3 inches of mulch. Around trees, apply 3–4 inches and keep it 3–6 inches away from the trunk. For playgrounds, install 6–12 inches of engineered wood fiber over a proper base for fall attenuation.
What is mulch used for?
- Flower beds and shrub borders
- Around trees and specimen plants
- Vegetable gardens (straw, leaf)
- Playground safety surfacing
- Path covering
Which types of mulch are there?
Hardwood bark
Long-lasting, classic look. Most common landscape mulch.
Cedar / cypress
Naturally rot-resistant, mild insect repellent.
Pine bark nuggets
Decorative, drains well. Can float in heavy rain.
Dyed mulch (black, brown, red)
Colorfast for one season, then fades.
Rubber mulch
Playgrounds. Long-lasting but doesn't feed soil.
Straw / leaf mulch
Vegetable beds. Breaks down in a season, feeds soil.
What else do people ask about mulch?
How deep should mulch be?
2–3 inches for beds, 3–4 inches around trees, kept off the trunk.
How many bags of mulch in a yard?
13.5 bags at 2 ft³ per bag.
How often should mulch be refreshed?
Top-dress every spring; fully replace every 2–3 years.