Niki Powell

Choosing the right soil mix isn’t just about what you’re planting — it’s about scale, structure, and performance. When you’re managing a large project like a school garden program, municipal growing beds, or a commercial farm install, the soil you choose directly impacts growth success and maintenance requirements.

One of the most common comparisons we hear is raised bed soil vs garden blend. While both serve important purposes, they are designed for different conditions. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between the two, explain when to use each, and help you choose the right bulk mix for your next project.

Raised bed soil is a premium, lightweight soil blend designed for above-ground growing environments. These mixes are often fluffier, well-draining, and rich in organic matter, which allows roots to establish quickly in confined spaces.

Key characteristics of raised bed soil:

• Loamy, light texture to prevent compaction
• High organic content to improve nutrient availability
• Balanced water retention and draining
• Often includes compost, screened topsoil, pine fines, or peat moss

Raised bed soil is best for:

• Community, school, and home garden beds
• Urban agriculture containers
• Institutional or education installations
• Rooftop and elevated planters

Because raised beds aren’t in contact with native soil, the mix has to do all the work… structure, drainage, fertility, and aeration. That’s why it’s critical to invest in a high-quality raised bed mix when growing at scale.

Garden blend soil is typically used for in-ground planting where the goal is to improve native soil with added organic matter and structure. It’s often heavier than raised bed soil and may include more topsoil or sand, depending on the region.

Key characteristics of Garden Blend Soil:

• Denser composition for in-ground use
• Designed to mix with or amend existing soil
• Contains compost, screened topsoil, and sometimes sand or clay
• Lower per-yard cost than raised bed soil

Garden Blend Soil is best for:

• Ground-level gardens
• Soil amendment on large lots
• Planting trees and shrubs
• Lawn or turf installations

This blend is ideal when you’re improving poor or compacted soils or filling new garden zones that already connect with native soil ecosystems.

Intended Use

Texture

Drainage

Organic Matter

Root Environment

Cost per Cubic Yard

Above-ground containers

Light & fluffy

Excellent

High

Self-contained

Higher

In-ground planting

Denser, heavier

Moderate to good

Moderate

Mixed with native soil

Lower

If you’re building out dozens of raised beds or prepping multiple garden plots, these differences matter in both performance and budget planning.

When sourcing soil for large-scale use, quality and consistency become even more important. Buying soil in bags may work for a single homeowner, but if you’re filling 40 raised beds for a school district or delivering truckloads to a nonprofit farm, bulk soil delivery is the only practical choice.

Here’s what to look for in a bulk soil supplier:

• Consistent blend and particle size
• Available analysis or specs (e.g., pH, organic content)
• Delivery scheduling that aligns with your install team
• Options for both raised bed soil and garden blend
• Support choosing the right mix for your use case

At The Compost Company, we offer both mixes in bulk, screened for consistency, and available by the cubic yard. We also offer custom blends if your project has specific requirements.

Some large projects benefit from a hybrid mix tailored to your needs. For example, a school district might request a blend that includes more compost for nutrition, while a farm startup may need a soil with better drainage for root vegetables.

Custom soil blends can adjust:

• Compost ratio
• Sand or perlite for drainage
• pH balancing for specialty crops
• Nutrient mix based on application

If your project spans multiple zones or growing conditions, a custom soil blend could be more cost-effective than managing multiple product types on-site.

According to Penn State Extension, a soil mix that includes approximately 30% compost and 70% topsoil is ideal for raised bed applications. This blend offers strong structure, balanced drainage, and nutrient retention, which are all essential for healthy plant growth in self-contained environments like raised beds.

When you’re building at scale, small soil decisions have a big impact. Choosing between raised bed soil and garden blend starts with understanding how each mix performs in your project environment. Whether you’re installing dozens of raised beds, planting rows of fruit trees, or amending soil across a park system, the right soil mix helps your plants, and your project, thrive.

As temperatures drop and peak season winds down, many large-scale buyers shift their focus from maintaining landscapes to preparing for what comes next. For contractors, municipalities, and agricultural teams, fall is the perfect time to bulk order compost, not just to check off a seasonal task, but to set up spring success.

In this article, we’ll explain why fall is the ideal window to bring in compost by the truckload, how it fits into project timelines, and how it improves soil performance when it matters most.

1. Soil Takes Time to Rebuild

Fall offers the ideal conditions for soil improvement. With plant growth slowing down and temperatures cooling off, compost has time to integrate into the soil naturally over winter. This allows:

• Microbial activity to continue without extreme heat

• Organic matter to break down and bond with native soil

• Structure to improve before spring planting or turf installation

Whether you’re prepping athletic fields, restoring urban tree beds, or regrading a development site, applying compost in the fall gives your soil time to settle and strengthen.

2. Project Backlogs Are Easier to Manage

Spring is often a sprint. Crews are booked solid, supply chains tighten, and delivery calendars fill quickly. When you bulk order compost in fall, you benefit from more flexible delivery windows, reduced labor pressure, and less competition for materials. It’s also easier to access staging areas without the foot traffic and congestion of peak season. By planning compost delivery now, you set your spring installs up for success without unexpected delays, especially on projects that span multiple sites or phases.

3. Fall Weather Supports Better Application

Unlike the heat and unpredictability of summer, fall weather tends to be more stable. Cooler temperatures and moderate rainfall make it easier to apply compost efficiently across large areas.

Bulk compost can be:

• Spread over future planting zones

• Incorporated into soil with tillers or loaders

• Used to topdress turf or lawns

• Applied in erosion-prone zones for winter stabilization

Less evaporation also means compost stays moist longer, helping it bond to soil and reduce dust during install.

4. Ideal for Winterizing and Erosion Control

Compost isn’t just a soil builder, it’s also a surface stabilizer. For municipalities, developers, and infrastructure contractors, fall composting helps:

• Reduce erosion on disturbed soils

• Hold ground on slopes or grading zones

• Protect bare ground over winter

• Support compliance for stormwater and environmental codes

Even a 2-inch layer of compost can significantly improve water infiltration and reduce runoff on exposed sites.

5. Spring Projects Start Faster

When you bulk order compost in fall and apply it early, your spring projects start ahead of schedule. There’s no waiting on delivery, weather windows, or soil remediation.

Fall composting allows:

• Early planting without delays

• Stronger plant establishment

• Smoother inspections and punch lists

• Reduced pressure on your crew and supplier network

Clients love when you’re ahead of the game. Fall planning gives you the margin to deliver smoother installs and better results.

6. Volume Pricing and Availability

Fall is one of the best times to take advantage of volume pricing and greater product availability. As many large buyers scale back toward the end of the season, bulk compost becomes easier to source, and freight rates may be more competitive. This creates an ideal window for budget-conscious teams to secure materials without the time pressure of spring or summer demand.

At The Compost Company, we offer contractor pricing based on volume, flexible scheduling for late-season deliveries, and staging options for multi-site orders. Our compost blends are also tailored for fall and winter performance, helping you stabilize soil, reduce erosion, and prepare for early spring installs.

If you’re managing a school district, park system, or large development, ordering compost in bulk during the fall is both financially smart and operationally efficient. You’ll have better control over scheduling, logistics, and site prep, all without the chaos of peak season.

What The Experts Say

According to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension, compost is a powerful soil amendment that improves soil structure, water infiltration, and moisture retention. The guide highlights that fall is an especially beneficial time to add compost, as cooler conditions help integrate organic material naturally, ideal when preparing for spring installations

Set Yourself Up For Success

The fall season is often overlooked when it comes to composting, but it’s one of the smartest times to invest in your soil and your schedule. By placing a bulk compost order in fall, you improve soil structure, support your spring plans, and reduce project stress.

When it comes to commercial landscaping and construction projects, compost isn’t just a soil amendment — it’s part of the foundation. Whether you’re preparing planting beds, improving turf performance, or restoring disturbed land, using the right volume of compost is essential for both soil health and cost efficiency.

But estimating the amount of compost you need can get tricky. Under-order, and you risk project delays. Over-order, and you’re wasting money and resources. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to calculate bulk compost needs for large-scale landscaping and construction jobs so you can order confidently.

Ordering in bulk means every miscalculation is magnified. Shorting yourself even a few yards can stall an install, while overordering eats into your project budget and space.

For contractors, landscape architects, and facilities teams, precision matters. Planning compost volume properly can:

• Prevent unexpected delivery delays
• Reduce material waste
• Improve jobsite efficiency
• Ensure uniform coverage across large zones
• Keep your team on schedule and under budget

Compost is typically sold by the cubic yard, not by weight or pallet. Understanding this measurement is the key to planning successful jobs at scale.

To calculate how much compost you need in cubic yards, use this formula:

Square footage × depth (in inches) ÷ 324 = cubic yards

1 cubic yard covers:

• 324 sq. ft. at 1 inch
• 162 sq. ft. at 2 inches
• 108 sq. ft. at 3 inches

If you’re covering a 25,000 sq. ft. installation with 2 inches of compost:

25,000 × 2 ÷ 324 = 154.32 cubic yards

You’ll want to round up to 155–160 cubic yards to account for settling and irregular site grading.

Different use cases call for different compost depths. Here are some standard guidelines:

Pro tip: For soil remediation or erosion control projects, expect to use closer to 3 inches, especially on sloped or depleted sites.

Bulk buyers need to account for variables that smaller jobs can ignore. Before finalizing your order, assess:

• Soil composition – Sandy or poor soils absorb more compost
• Grade or slope – Hillsides may need additional depth to prevent runoff
• Moisture content – Wet compost can compact more quickly
• Access limitations – Will you need to stage compost in different areas?
• Spillage or redistribution – Always factor in a buffer for cleanup or rework

For large jobs, it’s smart to add 5 to 10 percent extra to your total estimate to avoid unexpected shortfalls.

To simplify the math, The Compost Company offers an easy-to-use Bulk Compost Calculator that converts square footage and depth into cubic yards. It’s designed specifically for contractors, developers, and municipal teams working at scale.

Use our Bulk Compost Calculator

Once you know your volume, we’ll work with you to schedule delivery in phases, coordinate staging zones, or align with your install crew’s schedule.

Once you’ve calculated your volume, efficient delivery is the next step. Here’s what to consider:

• Dump zone access – Clear, stable ground that can handle truck weight
• Load capacity – Larger deliveries may be split into multiple loads
• Crew timing – Plan delivery to arrive when your team is ready to spread
• Weather window – Wet conditions can complicate unloading or spreading
• Staging protection – Use tarps or temporary cover if storing onsite for more than 24–48 hours

At The Compost Company, we deliver bulk compost across the southern US with flexible scheduling for large orders.

We regularly supply compost for projects like:

• Municipal parks and greenways
• DOT and infrastructure restoration
• Commercial and multifamily developments
• School campuses and athletic fields
• Large-scale agriculture or orchard operations
• Environmental reclamation and soil rebuilding

Our team understands the logistics and scope of large jobs, and we’re here to help your crew stay on schedule.

1.  Calculate each project zone individually
2.  Choose the right compost depth for your use case
3.  Use our calculator to estimate volume
4.  Round up to avoid running short
5.  Schedule delivery based on crew availability
6.  Partner with a supplier experienced in large-scale delivery

Ordering mulch might seem simple, but for contractors and commercial buyers, it’s rarely a one-size-fits-all job. When you’re covering large areas or working on a schedule, bulk mulch becomes the most efficient and cost-effective option. Whether you’re sourcing for a commercial property, a housing development, or a municipal project, choosing the right mulch (and ordering it the right way) can make or break your timeline and budget.

This guide walks you through the key considerations when ordering bulk mulch, including types, applications, logistics, and how to get the best value for your project.

Why Bulk Mulch Makes Sense for Large Projects

Buying mulch in bulk isn’t just about convenience. For large-scale jobs, bulk delivery reduces material cost, labor, and waste. Here’s why contractors and property managers consistently opt for bulk mulch delivery:

• Lower cost per cubic yard compared to bagged mulch
• Faster installation with machinery or wheelbarrows
• Fewer pallets and packaging waste
• Easier scheduling for deliveries tied to job site timelines

If you’re ordering 10+ yards of mulch, bulk is always the better choice.

Choosing the Right Type of Mulch

Not all mulch is the same. The type of bulk mulch you order should be based on the job site’s needs, whether it’s for aesthetic appeal, erosion control, soil temperature regulation, or moisture retention.

Common Types of Mulch

• Natural Hardwood Mulch – Durable, dark brown, and well-suited for most landscape beds. Breaks down slowly and provides long-term coverage.
• Compost Mulch – A finer, nutrient-rich blend of composted organic material. Great for suppressing weeds while feeding soil.
• Color-Enhanced Mulch – Treated with environmentally safe dyes—typically available in black, red, or brown. Ideal for high-visibility areas.
• Playground Mulch – Engineered wood chips for safety and impact absorption—best for schools, parks, and public spaces.

If you’re unsure which type of mulch fits your project, talk to your supplier about the job’s location, sunlight exposure, and intended use.

How Much Mulch Do You Need?

Measuring correctly prevents delays and keeps your budget in check. Bulk mulch is sold by the cubic yard, and here’s how to estimate how much you’ll need:

1 cubic yard covers about:

• • 324 sq. ft. at 1 inch deep
  • 162 sq. ft. at 2 inches deep
  • 108 sq. ft. at 3 inches deep

Most commercial applications use a 2–3 inch depth to control weeds and retain moisture. For large jobs, always round up slightly to account for terrain, irregular shapes, and compaction. Use our handy Compost Calculator below to help you calculate your needs.

Planning for Bulk Mulch Delivery

Bulk mulch delivery logistics can vary based on location, site access, and volume. Here’s what to consider:

• Dump Location – Make sure the truck has clear, safe access to the drop site.
• Scheduling – Book ahead — spring and fall are peak seasons.
• Weather – Mulch is heavy, and wet mulch is heavier. Try to avoid delivery during heavy rain or muddy conditions.
• Staging – If you’re spreading the mulch over several days, consider tarping to protect it from weather and runoff.

Cost Factors and Bulk Ordering Tips

The price of bulk mulch is influenced by many factors, including:

• Type (natural vs dyed vs composted)
• Volume
• Delivery distance and logistics
• Market demand during the season

To get the most value:

• Order early in the season before demand spikes
• Combine mulch with compost or soil for multi-material discounts
• Ask about repeat-customer pricing or contractor accounts

Environmental Benefits of Organic Mulch

Beyond aesthetics and cost, mulch plays a huge role in sustainable landscape design. Organic bulk mulch suppresses weed growth without herbicides, reduces water loss through evaporation, insulates roots from temperature extremes, and decomposes naturally, adding organic matter to the soil.

When you choose mulch made from locally recycled wood or composted organics, you’re also supporting waste diversion and circular economy practices.

Why Contractors Choose The Compost Company for Bulk Mulch

We work with contractors, municipalities, developers, and commercial property owners who need bulk mulch they can count on – in the right quantity, delivered on time. Our mulch is processed and screened for consistency, made from locally sourced materials, and available by the cubic yard.

Whether you’re ordering 10 yards or 100, we’ve got the supply, logistics, and team to support your next project.

Final Tips Before You Order

• Know your square footage and preferred depth
• Select a mulch type based on function, not just looks
• Schedule a delivery well before your install date
• Work with a supplier who understands commercial timelines

Ready to Order Bulk Mulch for Your Next Project?

The Compost Company delivers throughout Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Click here to see all of our mulch products available for delivery.