Mulch is a must-have for any landscape project—whether you’re enhancing curb appeal, keeping weeds in check, or protecting plant roots. But if you’re covering a large area, the cost of mulch can quickly add up. Fortunately, there are several ways to save money without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re managing a residential property, a commercial site, or a municipal landscaping project, this guide will walk you through the most cost-effective ways to buy mulch in New Jersey.
1. Understand the Types of Mulch and Their Costs
Before diving into buying strategies, it’s important to understand that not all mulch is created equal. The type of mulch you choose directly affects your budget.
Common types of mulch include:
- Triple Ground Hardwood Mulch – Fine texture, excellent for moisture retention and weed control.
- Color-Enhanced Mulch (Black, Brown, Red) – Adds visual appeal and lasts longer, but usually costs more.
- Cedar or Pine Mulch – Naturally aromatic and pest-repellent, but generally pricier.
- Playground Mulch – Specialized for safety in play areas.
- Wood Chips or Bark Nuggets – Coarser texture, affordable, and long-lasting.
If cost is your primary concern, uncolored hardwood mulch or double/triple ground mulch sourced locally will be your best bet.
2. Buy in Bulk, Not Bags
The single most effective way to save money on mulch is to buy it in bulk. Bagged mulch is convenient but significantly more expensive per cubic yard than bulk mulch.
Example Price Comparison (approximate):
- Bagged Mulch (2 cu ft per bag): $3.50–$5.00 per bag
- Bulk Mulch: $30–$45 per cubic yard (covers about 100 sq ft at 3″ depth)
You’d need 13–14 bags to equal one cubic yard. So even at $3.50 a bag, you’re looking at $45+, which is often more than bulk mulch—before tax. Buying in bulk offers immediate savings, especially for larger projects.
3. Find a Local Landscape Supply Yard
Buying from a local supplier like Kirk Allen Landscape Supply in New Jersey can save you on both product and delivery fees. Local supply yards often offer better prices than big box retailers, and they sometimes offer loyalty discounts or reduced pricing for contractors and repeat customers.
By sourcing mulch locally in Sussex, Morris, Warren, or Hunterdon County, you also reduce transportation costs and get fresher, higher-quality materials.
4. Split a Bulk Order with a Neighbor
If your landscaping project doesn’t require a full load of mulch (usually 5–20 cubic yards per delivery), consider teaming up with a neighbor or nearby homeowner. Splitting the cost of bulk delivery is a smart way to cut expenses while still enjoying volume discounts.
Pro Tip: Coordinate your order with someone doing a spring clean-up or backyard makeover. Many homeowners in North Jersey refresh their mulch in April or May—perfect timing to team up.
5. Schedule Around Seasonal Promotions
Many landscape supply yards offer promotions during the spring and early summer when demand is highest. You might catch discounts on bulk mulch orders or free delivery specials during:
- Early spring (March–April) – Pre-season deals
- Post-Memorial Day – Discounts on overstock
- Fall clean-up (September–October) – Clearance sales
Check Kirk Allen Landscape Supply’s website or call 973-347-3117 to ask about current mulch specials or delivery discounts in your area.
6. Choose a Lower-Cost Mulch Blend
Not all mulch is premium-grade—and that’s okay. You can often ask your local supplier for a natural blend mulch or a utility mulch, which is made from reclaimed wood, brush, or trimmed tree waste. It’s not as uniform in color, but it’s functional, eco-friendly, and typically 20–30% cheaper.
For example, triple-ground natural mulch is often preferred for large-scale applications such as:
- Roadside landscaping
- Municipal plant beds
- HOA common areas
- Commercial buildings
These areas prioritize function over aesthetics, so cheaper blends make perfect sense.
7. Watch Out for “Free” Mulch
Some tree companies or municipalities offer free mulch from trimmed trees or storm cleanup efforts. While the price is tempting, the quality and consistency of this mulch can be hit or miss.
Potential issues with free mulch:
- May contain weed seeds, insects, or diseased plant matter
- Often very coarse and not double or triple ground
- May not be aged or decomposed enough for safe use
If you go this route, be sure to compost the mulch for several months or ask where the material is coming from. When in doubt, stick to reliable, screened mulch from a reputable supplier.
8. Measure Correctly to Avoid Overbuying
Overestimating the amount of mulch you need can be just as expensive as paying too much per yard. Take time to measure your beds and calculate accurately:
Use this formula:
Square footage × desired depth (in inches) ÷ 324 = Cubic yards needed
For example, for 600 square feet at 3 inches depth:
600 × 3 ÷ 324 = 5.56 cubic yards
Round up to the nearest half-yard. Ordering the correct amount saves money and prevents waste.
Kirk Allen Landscape Supply even offers guidance or tools to help you estimate your needs before ordering.
9. Consider Delivery vs. Pick-Up Costs
If you have a truck or trailer, picking up your mulch may save you $50–$100 in delivery fees. However, for large orders (5+ yards), delivery is often more practical—and worth it. Ask about:
- Minimum yardage for free delivery
- Delivery radius pricing
- Same-day or next-day availability
The team at Kirk Allen Landscape Supply delivers throughout northern New Jersey—including Hunterdon, Warren, Sussex, and Morris Counties.
Final Thoughts: Affordable Mulch is a Smart Investment
While the initial cost of mulch might seem high for large properties or frequent landscaping projects, using the strategies above can significantly reduce what you pay per yard—without sacrificing quality.
If you’re in New Jersey and want affordable, bulk mulch options with convenient delivery, contact Kirk Allen Landscape Supply at 973-347-3117 or visit kirkallenlandscapesupply.com to explore mulch types, get a quote, or schedule delivery.
