Improve Your Curb Appeal By Installing High-Quality Bark Mulch
We offer mulch delivery and installation services
Mulch installation can provide several benefits for your garden beds such as giving it a nice uniform appearance, it can also help to reduce the amount of weeds, it can help retain moisture, and it helps insulate and protect your plants root systems during cold weather. Adding mulch to your garden beds is a key part of maintaining a healthy looking landscape.
There are several different types of mulch available at local landscape supply yards that we can use on your property for different aesthetic and functional properties. Typically we use hardwood bark mulch in a variety of grades including bark nuggets, shredded mulch, and bark fines. It's available in different colors as well including black, brown, or red.
Harvest Outdoor Living is a landscaping contractor based out of Bel Air, Maryland and serving Harford County and the surrounding area. We offer delivery and spreading of several different types of bark mulch for garden beds of all sizes. We can deliver and spread mulch throughout your garden beds, flower beds and landscape features for both residential and commercial clients.
What Are The Benefits Of Installing Bark Mulch In Your Garden Or Landscape Beds?
Here are three clear benefits of installing bark mulch in garden or landscape beds:
Moisture Retention: Bark mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, which can benefit the plants in your garden. According to a study by the University of Rhode Island, bark mulch can reduce soil moisture loss by up to 25%, which can help plants grow better and require less watering. This can be especially beneficial in areas with hot and dry climates or during periods of drought or when water restrictions might be in place.
Weed Suppression: Another benefit of bark mulch is that it can help suppress weed growth in your garden or landscape beds. When applied in a thick enough layer bark mulch can reduce weed growth by up to 90% for extended periods of time. This is because the mulch creates a physical barrier that prevents weed seeds from germinating and growing.
Soil Improvement: Bark mulch can also improve the quality of your soil over time. As the mulch breaks down, it adds organic matter to the soil, which can improve soil structure, and nutrient content. These can both benefit plant growth and health in the long term.
Preparing Your Garden And Landscape Beds For Mulch Installation
It's not really a good idea to just start spreading out mulch without some preparation to the garden and landscape beds.
For a proper, professional level installation you'll want to properly prepare the areas where the mulch will be installed. This can include removing any weeds in the beds, removal of any brush, undergrowth, or organic debris in the beds.
Landscape cloth can be laid down if necessary but with proper preparation it is seldom needed. Shrubs and bushes and any surrounding tree cover should be pruned and trimmed back. This will prevent organic debris from falling into your newly spread mulch.
We are happy to add garden and landscape bed preparation and clean up services into your estimate. It makes an amazing difference in how good the mulch will look after installation.
Edging Your Garden Beds Before Mulch Installation
Edging service is offered for all mulch jobs, and while this service is optional it is highly recommended. Edging a garden bed is done using a special machine or in many cases we just do it by hand. Edging the garden beds will create a more established edge to separate your mulched beds from other landscaped areas and provides a distinct line of separation between your landscaping features. This also helps keep the mulch in the bed and not strewn about your lawn or hardscaping. A defined edge can also keep the grass from growing into the garden beds as well.
Lastly, edging the beds will give your garden beds a nice, clean, and uniform look.
Mulch Delivery & Installation
Minimum Mulch Delivery/Spreading = 5 Yards. Mulch is sold and delivered by the yard. 1 yard of mulch spread about an 1″ thick should cover approximately 324 square feet. We can arrive to your location with up to 6-12 yards of mulch in one of our dumping trailers and orders larger than that will need to be delivered via a dump truck or we can do it in multiple trips.
*Each trip for mulch or other materials comes with an individual delivery charge.
Our mulching estimates include delivery costs, spreading (approx 1 man hr per yard), edging of your garden beds, and a clean up of the delivery area. You'll be really happy with the new, uniform appearance your garden beds will have!
What Does It Cost To Install Mulch?
Please Note: We have a minimum charge of $500 for bark mulch installation projects. This includes the mulch, delivery, and installation. For exact pricing please request an estimate.
Smaller Properties
Starting @ $500
This would be for a smaller property with a few garden beds that require mulch installation.
Large Properties
$1000 - $5000+
This would be for a large property like an estate or HOA with several large garden beds surrounding the property.
Mulch Installation Estimates Include
Please Note: We have a minimum charge of $500 for bark mulch installation projects.
- Initial clean up of garden beds and removal of debris. (we recommend trimming shrubs and bushes at this time)
- Delivery and installation of high quality bark mulch (approximately 2" to 3" deep).
- Clean up of the delivery area using blowers and rakes. We'll leave no trace!
Do You Have Questions About Bark Mulch Installation?
A depth of 2 to 4 inches of bark mulch is generally recommended for landscape beds, based on the recommendations of various horticulturists from leading universities. Any less and it won't last very long, any more and it could prevent your plants from getting water and oxygen to their roots.
Bark mulch typically lasts for one to two years, depending on the climate, soil type, and other factors. It is generally recommended to replace the mulch every one to two years or as needed.
It is not necessary to remove old bark mulch before adding new mulch. However, it is recommended to rake or agitate the old mulch to loosen it up and mix it with the soil to promote it's decomposition.
Bark mulch is generally safe for pets and children, but it is recommended to keep them away from the mulched area until it is settled and dry. Some types of bark mulch may contain chemicals or dyes, so we often recommend the use of natural, untreated mulch if this is a concern.
Bark mulch can that is applied properly in a layer 2 to 4 inches thick can provide a really good barrier against weeds. It can stop seeds from germinating by blocking their sunshine and access to water. However, bark mulch will not prevent 100% of weeds from coming through and will eventually need to be replaced.
Bark mulch is best installed during the early spring where it has a chance to do the most good for your landscape beds by preventing weed growth early in the season.
Landscape cloth, also known as weed barrier or landscape fabric, is commonly used in gardens and landscaping projects to help suppress weed growth and provide a barrier between the soil and mulch. However, there are several disadvantages to using landscape cloth below bark mulch and we generally don't recommend it.
#1. It Can Reduce Soil Quality: Landscape cloth can impede the natural flow of air, water, and nutrients into the soil. This can result in poorer soil quality and health, potentially limiting plant growth for the plants you actually do want to grow.
#2. Limits The Breakdown Of Organic Matter: By blocking the contact between the mulch and the soil, landscape cloth can limit the breakdown of organic matter from the mulch into the soil. This reduces the benefits of applying mulch, such as improved soil structure and nutrient availability for plants.
#3. Weeds And Grasses Can Still Grow: Over time, organic debris can accumulate on top of the landscape cloth, providing a suitable environment for weeds and grasses to grow. Additionally, some persistent weeds may still grow through the fabric.
#4. Makes Planting More Difficult: Installing new plants or reconfiguring the layout of your garden can be more challenging when landscape cloth is present, as you will need to cut through the fabric to create space for new plants.
#5. Durability Issues: Although some landscape fabrics are designed to be long-lasting, they can eventually degrade due to exposure to the elements, requiring replacement. In some cases, the fabric can tear, rendering it less effective as a weed barrier.
#6. Environmental Concerns: The production and disposal of synthetic landscape cloth can have negative environmental impacts. Some fabrics are made from petroleum-based materials, which are not biodegradable and can contribute to plastic pollution.
#7. Aesthetics: The edges of landscape cloth can sometimes become visible, detracting from the overall appearance of your garden or landscape.
While landscape cloth can be helpful in certain situations, it's important to consider these potential disadvantages before installing it under bark mulch.
Bark mulch can be used in vegetable gardens and around fruit trees, as it helps maintain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature. If you plan on installing bark mulch in your vegetable gardens and around fruit trees it's best to choose a bark mulch that doesn't use any color dye or the dye is non-toxic.
Some types of bark mulch can slightly affect soil pH, but generally not enough to harm most plants. If you'd like us to we can test your soil pH and choose a bark mulch that suits your specific plants' needs.
Bark mulch is made from the outer layer of trees, wood chips are small pieces of wood, and shredded bark is longer strands of bark. Each type has different characteristics and may be more suitable for specific applications.
We do not offer “delivery only” services on mulch. We are a landscaping company and not a product supplier. If you require mulch delivered for you to install on your own, we suggest contacting your nearest landscape supply company.
If you’d like to schedule an estimate to deliver and install mulch in your garden beds we’d be happy to meet with you. Please call 443-766-4831 or fill out our online form and we’ll get right back to you.
It was a great experience working with Tom Riley and his crew from Harvest. He was very accommodating and patient. A big thank you and shout out to them
Our family is so happy that we hired Tom Kiley- Harvest Outdoor Living to design and create two major hardscaping projects to enhance the established landscape of our home this Summer. The entirety of our projects were handled with knowledge and expertise from conception to execution. The craftsmanship displayed in every aspect of the creation is the combination of experience and great skill. Tom Kiley is a Hands - On business owner, ensuring that the entire project was completed flawlessly ,exceeding both his and our expectations. Despite the extreme heat, the Harvest Outdoor Living crew worked long hours from early morning until evening, always respectful, friendly and pleasant, keeping the work site neat and tidy after each shift. God Bless the Three Amigos ! While we were looking for a simple sidewalk solution, Tom's inspired vision of a bi-level enclosed garden, featuring large boulders and flowering trees and plants ,illuminated at twilight intrigued us. We asked for a curving, hand cut heated bluestone sidewalk across our front yard that wraps around our existing front porch. This sidewalk, combined with another constructed with Cambridge Paving Stones adds a luxurious curb appeal. The second, more difficult project involved a combination of many skilled professionals ,including demolition experts, engineering plans and permits and a tremendous amount of hard physical labor. This project was also completed above and beyond our expectations and has solved our water issues. All plantings and replanting's were professional and successful. Ultimately, we have been given the landscaping improvements we always needed and wanted, yet never imagined could possibly exist ! Everyone comments on how beautiful our new landscape looks. We could not be happier with the results.
Tom and his crew transformed the empty space left in our backyard after the pool delete into a beautiful patio that we love to use, and that all our neighbors admire. Job started on time, completed within our budget, and perfect in every detail!
We were looking to do a complete backyard overhaul. The main problem was water sitting and the grass always felt like mush days after it rained. The project included a paver patio for better outdoor living space, regrading the yard, burrying some down spouts, and installing two French drains. Along the way we added In a tree removal, sectioning off the tree line with some mulch, and redoing the broken lattice under the sunroom. Last night's rain was an ultimate test of his work. There's no standing puddles and the water was rivering away during the rain like it was supposed to. Additionally the patio looks great. During the initial estimate Tom really took his time, asked the right questions and appeared to genuinely care about our problems and how to fix it. The other two who came out weren't as personable and didn't truly listen. Additionally, Tom's prices were fair for the work that was being asked. I'd highly recommend talking to Tom about an estimate if you're looking to do any type of outdoor project.
I was extremely happy with this company. They were respectful, knowledgeable, and did an amazing job. Thank you again for fixing the problem and much more.
Harvest Outdoor Living did a terrific mulching gardens, providing new storm design system and constructing new paver sidewalk. Job started on date stated in contract and completed on time and no change orders. Tom’s attention detail was so good you would think his team was working at his home.
We would highly recommend Harvest Outdoor Living for all of your landscaping needs. Our yard was overgrown and more high maintenance than we wanted or had time to deal with. We reached out to Tom for a quote and he responded quickly with a fair estimate. After we agreed to the quote, Tom scheduled our job for a week after. He and his team are professional and highly skilled. He took our mess of a yard and made it look spectacular. It’s better than we imagined. We could not be happier with the results.
Harvest Outdoor Living did a miraculous job on my landscaping design and requirements despite having many challenges. I found Tom Kiley to be the ultimate professional who patiently answered my questions and designed a solution that is perfect for our environment. Tom’s experience and expertise made the renovation a success. Tom earned 5 Stars for the work at my home. HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION.
Quality of work outstanding. Harvest Team pleasant, courteous, and professional. Delivered 100% on all agreed upon services. Communication flawless. Five star rating well deserved and earned. If you have landscaping needs, do not miss the opportunity to work with the Harvest Team! They are best in class!
without question this was a wonderful experience working with this company from beginning to finish. it was an effort to remedy a major drainage issues we have been having for years, with various slopes and terrain features to contend with. i interviewed the owner Tom, and as an engineer and former contractor the solutions seemed plausible. His price was fair and the work was completed within the timeframe he says it would. There was a spotless cleanup afterwards and as importantly his crew Saul and Carlos worked extremely well with Tom and their experience was evident. Honestly, i’ll be shocked if this doesn’t fit the bill as stated. Incredible company.
I am very happy with the work done by Harvest Landscape. Everything went as planned and the project turned out beautifully! I would definitely recommend.
I would absolutely recommend Harvest Landscape! Tom was extremely nice, professional and polite throughout the entire project. He worked with us to come up with the exact design we wanted within our budget and was so patient throughout the whole process. He was always on time and even started the project earlier than expected. He pays close attention to detail and him and his team work quickly and were very efficient. We will definitely be hiring Harvest landscape again for future landscape and hardscape projects. We are extremely satisfied and just love our new patio and fire pit so much!
Tom and team did a fantastic job on our patio. Totally changed the look and use of our backyard. Quality work from beginning to end. Highly recommend.
I had asked Tom about cutting back our mulch bed out front and adding a stone retaining wall - was very happy with the results! I also love that he used the plants we had and rearranged them to make them feel new - it helped frame the space while also helping us to keep within our budget. Will definitely be reaching out to him and his team again.
Tom really listens to what you need done and his expertise is evident. He's done an excellent job with the yardwork and helped me out twice. He's a keeper!
Tom was great to work with! He worked with me quite a bit to come up with a plan for my landscaping and used 3D rendering to show me example photos of what the work would look like! He built a beautiful retainer wall and put in lovely plants to spruce up the look of my home. There was excellent communication throughout the entire project. Thanks so much Tom! Will absolutely recommend you to others!!
Very professional and dependable. With an eye for detail, my yard has never looked better! Looking forward to future projects with Harvest!
Our neighbor recommended Tom and we are happy we called him. He stopped by our property and give us great ideas on how to create new garden beds and installing trees, as well as regrading and establishing our lawn. He was very diligent in his work and even came back to fix some issues that was caused by heavy winds. We will definitely use his services again and will recommend Tom to anyone we know.
I have used Harvest Landcare for 2 years now for my spring clean up and mulching. He also trimmed bushes in the fall. Very attentive and responsive and does great work. Highly recommend.
Harvest Landcare has done several mulching and landscape projects around my house. He is reliable, priced right and has a lot of attention to detail. I highly recommend.
Request Your Mulch Installation Estimate
Please Note: We have a minimum charge of $500 for bark mulch installation projects. This includes the mulch, delivery, and installation. For exact pricing please request an estimate.