Mulch Matters

Mulch 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 1½ yards and covers 162 square feet (9 ft. x 18 ft.)
1 full-sized pickup holds 2½ yards and covers 270 square feet (9 ft. x 30 ft.)

If you are buying bags containing 2 cubic feet of mulch, you can use the following chart:

Resources for managing mulch:

• Carolina Yard Actions Checklist

Additional Resources:

• Creating an Environmentally Responsible Landscape
• Conserving Water in Your Landscape
• Xeriscape
• Balancing Nature Within Your Landscape