Mulch Calculator
Estimate how much mulch you need for your Jacksonville landscaping beds. Calculate cubic yards and bags — completely free.
Serving Jacksonville, FL and surrounding areas
Calculate Your Mulch Needs
Select your bed shape, depth, and mulch type below
Select Your Bed Shape
Enter Dimensions
Recommended for edges and irregular coverage
Preview
Select Mulch Depth
Choose Your Mulch Type
✓Your Mulch Estimate
Total Bed Area
0
square feet
Mulch Needed at 3" Deep
0
cubic yards
Buying bagged mulch? (Optional)
Bag sizes vary by brand and retailer. Select your bag size to estimate how many you need.
Ready for an exact quote? Contact us — we'll help you choose the right mulch and quantity for your project.
Jacksonville Mulch Types
Popular mulch varieties for the Jacksonville, FL area
| Mulch Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Pine Bark | Natural brown bark that decomposes slowly and enriches soil. A popular, budget-friendly choice for Jacksonville gardens. |
| Pine Straw | Lightweight and easy to spread. Naturally acidic — great for acid-loving plants like azaleas and camellias. |
| Cypress | Light-colored, aromatic mulch with natural insect-repellent properties. Resists floating in heavy rain. |
| Hardwood | Dense, long-lasting mulch that breaks down into rich soil over time. Available in natural and dyed varieties. |
| Rubber | Made from recycled tires. Extremely long-lasting and does not decompose. Available in multiple colors. |
| Cedar | Aromatic, naturally insect-resistant mulch with a rich reddish-brown color. Premium option that lasts well. |
Not sure which mulch is right for your beds? Contact us or call (904) 901-1457 for a free recommendation.
How to Measure Your Mulch Beds
Accurate measurements ensure you order the right amount of mulch — not too much, not too little.
Step 1: Outline Your Beds
Walk the perimeter of each bed and note the general shape. Most beds are roughly rectangular, but use triangles or circles for curved areas.
Step 2: Measure Length & Width
Use a tape measure or measuring wheel to record the length and width of each bed in feet. For irregular beds, break them into simpler shapes.
Step 3: Decide on Depth
Choose your mulch depth: 2-3 inches for refreshing existing beds, 4+ inches for new installations. If you already have mulch, measure the remaining depth first.
Step 4: Add It All Up
Enter each bed's dimensions into our calculator. Add 10% waste factor for uneven edges and settling. The calculator will give you total cubic yards needed.
💡 Pro Tips for Mulching
- One cubic yard of mulch covers approximately 162 sq ft at 2" deep, 108 sq ft at 3" deep, or 81 sq ft at 4" deep.
- Keep mulch 3-6 inches away from tree trunks and plant stems to prevent rot ("volcano mulching" is harmful).
- In Jacksonville's climate, plan to refresh mulch beds once or twice per year as organic mulch decomposes.
- For weed suppression, lay landscape fabric or cardboard under new mulch before spreading.
- Bulk delivery is often more economical for projects needing 3+ cubic yards — ask for a free delivery quote.
- Wet mulch down lightly after spreading to help it settle and stay in place.
Mulch Landscaping in Jacksonville, FL
Everything you need to know about mulching in the Jacksonville area.
Why Mulch Your Landscape Beds?
Mulch is one of the most impactful and affordable landscaping improvements you can make. It suppresses weeds, retains soil moisture (critical in Jacksonville's hot summers), regulates soil temperature, and gives your beds a clean, finished look. As organic mulch decomposes, it also enriches your soil with nutrients.
Choosing the Right Mulch for Jacksonville
Jacksonville's climate — hot, humid summers and mild winters — means you need mulch that holds up to heavy rain and heat. Here's a quick guide:
- Pine Bark & Pine Straw: Budget-friendly choices that are widely available in Northeast Florida. Pine straw is excellent for sloped areas since it stays in place better than shredded mulch.
- Cypress Mulch: A mid-range option that resists washing away in Jacksonville's frequent summer downpours. Light color reflects heat.
- Hardwood Mulch: Dense and long-lasting. Available in natural and dyed colors. A versatile mid-range choice for most beds.
- Cedar Mulch: Premium option with natural insect-repellent properties — especially valuable in Florida's bug-heavy environment.
- Rubber Mulch: Does not decompose and lasts for years. Best for playgrounds and permanent installations, but does not enrich soil.
How Often Should You Remulch in Jacksonville?
In Jacksonville's warm, humid climate, organic mulch breaks down faster than in cooler regions. Plan to refresh your mulch 1-2 times per year — typically in spring and optionally again in fall. If your existing mulch still has good depth, you may only need a thin top-up layer of 1-2 inches.
Bulk vs. Bagged Mulch
For small projects (under 2-3 cubic yards), bagged mulch from your local garden center may be convenient. For larger projects, bulk delivery is typically more economical and saves you multiple trips. Contact us for a free quote on mulch delivery to your Jacksonville property.
Ready to Get Your Mulch Delivered?
Use your calculator estimate as a starting point, then get an exact quote from Jacksonville's trusted landscaping professionals. Free quotes, no obligation.