Cedar Mulch

Cedar mulch is milled from cedar logs, trim, and mill residuals, then run through a shredder or hammermill to produce either fine shredded strands or coarser chips and nuggets. Shredded cedar is the most common grade for residential beds because its fibrous strands interlock into a mat that resists wind and water displacement better than loose chips. Chip and nugget grades are chunkier, decorative, and slower to break down, but they shift more easily on slopes or in heavy rain. Quality grading generally comes down to consistency of particle size, moisture content at bagging or loading, and the ratio of bark to heartwood, since heartwood carries more of the aromatic oils responsible for cedar's scent and reputed pest resistance. Freshly milled cedar has the strongest aroma and reddish color, both of which mellow within the first few months as the wood dries and weathers, so material ordered and installed soon after milling will show the most vivid color and strongest smell.

Start by clearing existing weeds and debris, then lay mulch directly on bare soil or over a thin layer of compost rather than tilling it in, since decomposing wood mulch temporarily ties up nitrogen when mixed into soil. Spread cedar mulch to a depth of 2 to 4 inches, which is deep enough to suppress weeds and hold moisture without smothering roots or blocking water infiltration. Around trees and shrubs, form a wide, shallow ring out to the drip line and keep it a few inches clear of trunks and stems to prevent bark rot. Measure existing mulch depth before ordering more, since old mulch compresses over time, and account for settling of 10 to 20 percent after the first rain. On paths or play areas, tamp the mulch lightly after spreading to help it knit together and resist scattering underfoot.

Compared with cypress mulch. Cypress has a similar golden or orange color and pleasant aroma, and resists decay for about 2 to 3 years, but much of it comes from slower regenerating wetland forests. Cedar is generally the more sustainable pick and carries stronger natural oils, giving it a more noticeable insect deterrent effect.

Compared with hardwood mulch. Dyed hardwood mulch holds artificial color longer under UV exposure and often costs less, but it lacks cedar's natural oils and pest deterrent reputation. Hardwood also breaks down faster, feeding soil sooner but requiring more frequent replenishment than slower decaying cedar.

How much cedar mulch do I need. One cubic yard covers about 324 square feet at 1 inch deep or 162 square feet at 2 inches deep. For a typical 2 to 3 inch bed depth, expect 108 to 162 square feet of coverage per cubic yard. Measure your bed's square footage, decide on a depth within the 2 to 4 inch range, then divide square footage by the coverage figure that matches your target depth to get cubic yards needed.

How cedar mulch is sold and delivered. Cedar mulch is typically sold and delivered in bulk cubic yard quantities rather than bagged units, which is more economical for beds, paths, or play areas beyond a small patio planter. Bulk delivery drops a loose pile at your driveway or job site for you to spread, so plan for a truck sized unloading area and a wheelbarrow or cart to move material to the bed.