Quick Overview
Mulching , the nontextual matter of spreading organic matter around plants , offers a myriad of benefits for your garden . From suppressing gage toconserving moisture , mulch is a gardener’ssecret weapon . However , determining the right amount of mulch is crucial to harvest its benefits without overdoing it . This comprehensive template will take the air you through the steps of calculating the exact amount of mulch you ask for your garden beds .
Step 1: Measure the Area
The first footmark is to determine the orbit you require to mulch . Measure the length and breadth of each seam and multiply them to get thesquare footage . If your bed haveirregular shapes , divide them into small-scale rectangle or Triangulum and calculate the domain of each section separately .
Step 2: Choose the Mulch Thickness
The recommended mulch thickness varies look on the type of mulch used . constituent mulch like shredded barque orcompost typically requirea depth of 2 - 4 inches , whileinorganic mulcheslike crushed rock or caoutchouc mulch can bespread thinner , around 1 - 2 inches .
Step 3: Calculate the Volume
Once you have the sphere anddesired thickness , you could calculate the volume ofmulch needed . Simply multiply the field by the thickness . For example , if you have a 100 square foot bed and want 3 inch of mulch , you will need 300cubic feetof mulch .
Step 4: Convert to Cubic Yards
Mulch istypically soldin three-dimensional yards , so you need to commute your volume from cubic foot to cubic railway yard . Divide the volume in three-dimensional foot by 27 ( the issue of three-dimensional feet in a three-dimensional yard ) . In our example , 300cubic groundwork dividedby 27 equals 11.11 three-dimensional yards .
Step 5: Adjust for Coverage
Mulch will settle and constrict over time , so it ’s significant to conform your calculation to describe for this . Add 10 - 15 % to yourcalculated volumeto ensure you have enough reportage . In our illustration , 11.11cubic yardsplus 15 % is approximately 12.7 cubic yard .
Step 6: Factor in Irregular Shapes
If yourgarden bedshaveirregular shape , you may need to add a moment more mulch to ensure even coverage . For illustration , if your bottom hasrounded cornersor curves , you might add 5 - 10 % more mulch to your calculation .
Step 7: Purchase and Spread
Once you have reckon the amount of mulch you necessitate , purchase it from areputable supplier . Spread themulch evenlyover theprepared bed , making sure to allow a few inches of place around the base of plants .
Final Touches
After spreading the mulch , pee it thoroughly to settle it into place . You may also desire to consider add a bed oforganic matter , such as compost or manure , underneath the mulch to amend dirt fecundity .
Answers to Your Questions
How much mulch do I need for a 100 square foot bed?
Assuming a 3 - column inch thicknessand a 15 % adjustment for coverage , you will need roughly 12.7cubic yardsof mulch for a 100 square foot bed .
What is the best type of mulch for vegetable gardens?
constituent mulches , such asshredded bark , compost , or chaff , are idealistic forvegetable gardensas they allow for nutrients and meliorate land social system .
How often should I apply mulch?
Mulch should be reapplied every 1 - 2 yr , or more frequently if it breaks down rapidly or gets wash away by heavy rainwater .
