Measuring Mulch Beds
Landscaping beds are rarely perfect rectangles. Curved borders, trees, walkways, and other features can make an exact measurement difficult. For a practical estimate, divide a complicated bed into smaller shapes that are easier to measure, then calculate the areas together.
If you have several separate flower beds or landscaped areas, measure them individually rather than trying to estimate the entire property at once. This also makes it easier to use different mulch depths where needed.
How Deep Should Mulch Be?
There isn't one correct mulch depth for every project. The appropriate depth can depend on the type of mulch, whether the bed already contains usable mulch, the plants being protected, and what you want the mulch to accomplish.
Too little mulch may not provide the coverage you want, while excessive mulch can create problems around plants and trees. When adding mulch to an existing bed, check how much usable material is already there before deciding how much additional depth is needed.
Bulk Mulch vs. Bagged Mulch
Bagged mulch can be convenient for smaller projects because it is easy to transport and distribute a few bags at a time. For larger landscaping projects, buying mulch in bulk may be more practical and can reduce the number of individual bags that need to be handled.
When comparing the two, remember that bagged mulch is usually labeled by volume, while bulk landscape suppliers commonly sell mulch by a larger volume measurement. Comparing the total volume needed makes it easier to evaluate your options.
Before the Mulch Is Delivered
If you're ordering bulk mulch, decide where the load can be dumped before scheduling delivery. Consider access for the delivery vehicle and choose a location that won't block traffic or create unnecessary work moving the mulch to the landscaping beds.
For either bulk or bagged mulch, it's also worth checking the actual material before buying a large quantity. Mulches can differ considerably in color, texture, particle size, and how they look after being spread.