Mulch Coverage per Cubic Yard
| Depth | Coverage (sq ft) | 2 cu ft bags |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | 324 sq ft | 13.5 |
| 2 inches | 162 sq ft | 13.5 |
| 3 inches | 108 sq ft | 13.5 |
| 4 inches | 81 sq ft | 13.5 |
Bags per cubic yard is always 13.5 for 2 cu ft bags (27÷2). Coverage changes with depth.
Mulch Types Compared
| Type | Lifespan | Cost/yd³ | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood bark | 1-2 years | $25-40 | Flower beds, borders |
| Pine bark | 1-2 years | $25-35 | Acid-loving plants |
| Cedar | 2-3 years | $30-45 | Insect resistance |
| Cypress | 2-3 years | $30-50 | Slopes (doesn't float) |
| Rubber | 10+ years | $80-150 | Playgrounds |
| Dyed (red/black) | 1-2 years | $30-45 | Curb appeal |
Bulk vs Bags: The Cost Math
Bagged mulch (2 cu ft) costs $3-6 per bag at big-box stores, translating to $40-80 per cubic yard. Bulk delivery from a landscape supplier runs $25-50 per yard plus a flat delivery fee of $40-75. The break-even point is typically around 3-4 cubic yards — below that, bags are comparable once you factor in delivery. Above 4 yards, bulk saves 30-50%.
Mulching Best Practices
Keep mulch 3-6 inches away from tree trunks and plant stems. Piling it against bark (volcano mulching) traps moisture and causes rot, crown disease, and pest habitat. The optimal depth is 2-3 inches for beds and 3-4 inches for weed paths. Top-dress annually rather than removing old mulch — old mulch breaks down into soil amendments.