I'm trying to figure out the best mulch type for my yard beds. I'm in Zone 8A and want something durable so I don't have to reapply it every couple of years. My usual supplier has dyed hardwood for $36/cu yd, cypress mulch for $42/cu yd, and pine bark nuggets for $42/cu yd. I need about 16 cu yd to cover everything, so the price differences matter to me. Also, this area has some slopes, and one spot really gathers a lot of water when it rains.
Just to mention, I've tried using chip drop before but ended up with a bad load filled with trash and heavy limbs, so I'm reluctant to go that route again. Any advice would be super helpful!
4 Answers
I live in Zone 8B and have had good luck with shredded hardwood mulch. I use a heavier type, not the finely shredded stuff, which honestly looks nicer. I usually need to top it off every one or two years, but with the crazy rain we get, no mulch really stays put for long, especially on flat areas.
Those prices do seem a bit steep! It's worth shopping around for better deals at different suppliers if you can. You might be able to find something a little lower in cost.
If you want to avoid redoing it every year, consider putting down more mulch from the start. I usually do mine every three years. It might look a little worn by then, but I save a ton of cash. The trick is to rake it back into place each year to keep the fresh stuff on top. It's all about balancing the workload and the look! Choose a type that suits your area, and don’t be shy about layering it a bit thicker.
Have you ever thought about using rocks instead of wood mulch? Rocks can last much longer without needing to be replaced annually, plus they look pretty good! If you're aiming for a low-maintenance solution, that might be the way to go.
I actually already have some beds with rocks and like how they look! I enjoy the contrast with the mulch too, so I'd prefer to stick with a mix for now.