Maximize Mulch
(See page 38 in FY&N Handbook)

ulch keeps moisture in the soil and moderates soil temperature. Mulch also reduces erosion and weeds. Mulch is often sold in bags, by the yard or by the "truck-load." So, how much mulch do you need for your yard?

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MULCH: How much do you need to have the recommended depth of 3 inches?

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By the bag:
1 bag containing 2 cubic feet covers 8 square feet (2 ft. X 4 ft.)

By the bale:
1 bale of pine straw covers 18 to 20 square feet.

By the yard:
1 cubic yard covers 108 square feet (9 ft. x 12 ft.)

Pull mulch away from stems 
and trunks to avoid stem rot.

By the truckload:
1 mini pickup holds 1-1/2 yards and covers 162 square feet (9 ft. X 18 ft.)

1 full-sized pickup holds 2-1/2 yards and covers 270 square feet (9 ft. x 30 ft.)

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FLORIDA YARD ACTIONS

Keep a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch over the roots of trees, shrubs, and in plant beds.  Remember to leave at least 2 inches of space between the mulch and the plant's trunk or stem.  (Don't mulch citrus trees.) 
Credit:  2 inches
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Replenish mulch once or twice a year, as needed to maintain a 2-3 inch depth.   
Credit:  1 inch
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Create self-mulching areas under trees where leaves can stay where they fall.   
Credit:  1 inch
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Use by-product or alternative mulches such as pine bark, eucalyptus and melaleuca, or use recycled mulches when available from your community. 
Credit:  1 inch

_____Total inches
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Table of Contents Introduction What is A Florida Yard? Right Plant, Right Place Water Efficiently Maximize Mulch
Recycle Yard Waste Fertilize Appropriately Manage Yard Pests Responsibly Reduce Stormwater Runoff Provide for Wildlife On the Waterfront
Return to Florida Yardstick Workbook Return to FYN Publications