Mulch

Mulch

ulch keeps moisture in the soil and moderates soil temperature. Mulch also reduces erosion and weeds.

Mulch is often sold in bags, by the yard or by the "truckload." So, how much mulch do you need for your yard?

MULCH: How much do you need to have the recommended depth of 3 inches?

By the bag:
1 bag containing 2 cubic feet covers 8 square feet (2 ft. X 4 ft.)

By the bale:
1 bale of pine straw covers 18 to 20 square feet.

By the yard:
1 cubic yard covers 108 square feet (9 ft. x 12 ft.)

By the truckload:
1 mini pickup holds 1 1/2 yards and covers 162 square feet
(9 ft. x 18 ft.)
1 full-sized pickup holds 2 1/2 yards and covers 270 square feet
(9 ft. x 30 ft.)

Keep a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch over the roots of trees, shrubs, and in plant beds. Remember to leave at least 2 inches of space between the mulch and the plant's trunk or stem.
Credit: 2 inches.
Replenish mulch once or twice a year, as needed to maintain a 2-3 inch depth.
Credit: 1 inch.
Create self-mulching areas under trees where leaves can stay where they fall.
Credit: 2 inches.
Use organic mulches such as bark and pine straw.
Credit: 1 inch.

___ Total Inches

Pull mulch away from stems and trunks to avoid stem rot.