Skip to main content
All Posts By

Niki Powell

Why Fall is The Best Time to Bulk Order Compost

By Bulk Products & Applications

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.

August 1, 2025
Love0

How to Calculate Bulk Compost Needs for Large-Scale Jobs

By Bulk Products & Applications

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.

Why Compost Volume Calculations Matter

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.

The Formula: How to Calculate for Bulk Compost Needs

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

Example Calculation:

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.

Depth Guidelines for Commercial Applications

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

Application Type

Sod base or turf renovation

Bed preparation for planting

Soil remediation or grading

Urban tree surrounds

Agricultural topdressing

Recommended Depth

1 inch

1.5 to 2 inches

2 to 3 inches

2 inches

0.5 to 1 inch

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

Project Conditions That Affect Your Order

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.

Streamline Estimating With Our Calculator

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.

Planning Bulk Compost Delivery

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.

Who Is This For

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.

Final Checklist Before You Order

  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

Planning a large-scale project?

We make it easy to calculate, order, and receive bulk compost for landscaping, construction, municipal, and agricultural use. Whether you need 20 yards or 200, we’re here to help.

Submit an Order OnlineUse Our Compost Calculator
July 24, 2025
Love0

Mulching Tips for Summer Landscapes

By Bulk Products & Applications

Summer is the season of stress for both plants and landscapers. High temperatures, dry conditions, and intense sun can damage even the most well-designed landscapes. Fortunately, there’s one simple and effective strategy to protect your investment: mulching.

This post covers essential summer mulching tips to help preserve moisture, control weeds, and reduce soil temperature. Whether you manage commercial properties or oversee large residential developments, smart mulching will save time, water, and money.

 

Why Mulch Is Essential During Summer

Mulch is more than a finishing touch. During summer, it acts as a barrier between the soil and harsh environmental conditions. Here’s why mulching is especially important this time of year:

  • Reduces moisture evaporation caused by direct sunlight

  • Stabilizes soil temperatures to protect roots from heat

  • Suppresses weeds that compete for water and nutrients

  • Minimizes crusting and runoff after summer rain

  • Adds organic matter to the soil as it decomposes

According to Colorado State University Extension, mulching can reduce moisture evaporation from soil by up to 70 percent, depending on the mulch type and how thickly it’s applied. That’s a major benefit during dry summer months or when watering restrictions are in place.

Choosing the Right Type of Mulch for Summer

Not all mulch performs the same in summer heat. The type of mulch you choose should align with your project goals, whether it’s moisture retention, soil improvement, or visual appeal.

Recommended Bulk Mulch Types:

  • Natural Hardwood Mulch – A durable, classic choice that holds up well in sun and rain. It also provides excellent weed control and long-lasting coverage.

  • Compost Mulch – A blend of partially decomposed organic material that improves soil health while regulating temperature and moisture.

  • Pine Bark Mulch – Works well for acid-loving plants and decomposes more slowly than other types. Suitable for large decorative beds.

  • Shredded Mulch – Offers better coverage and stays in place during wind and rain. Ideal for slopes or exposed areas.

Avoid using rock or rubber mulch in hot climates. These materials trap heat and do not contribute to soil health.

When Should You Apply Mulch in Summer?

The best time to mulch is in late spring or early summer before the hottest weather begins. However, if it’s already mid-summer, it’s still worth applying mulch to protect your landscape.

Here are a few tips for mid-season mulching:

  • Water the soil thoroughly before applying mulch

  • Never mulch over dry soil since this can trap dryness in

  • Apply mulch after a rain or early in the day for better soil contact

Working in the early morning or late evening is safer and more effective when applying mulch during peak summer temperatures.

How Much Mulch to Apply

For most landscaping applications, a depth of 2 to 3 inches is ideal. Less than that won’t provide enough insulation, while too much mulch can prevent water and air from reaching plant roots.

Coverage guidelines:

  • 2 inches covers about 162 square feet per cubic yard

  • 3 inches covers about 108 square feet per cubic yard

To estimate how much mulch you need, use this formula:

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

Use our bulk mulch calculator to make this easier!

Common Mulching Mistakes in Summer

Avoid these common errors when mulching during hot weather:

  • Piling mulch around tree trunks (also called “mulch volcanoes”)

  • Using raw mulch that hasn’t decomposed properly

  • Applying mulch over dry or compacted soil

  • Ignoring weather forecasts before scheduling delivery

  • Over-mulching, which can suffocate plants or attract pests

If you’re unsure which mulch is right for your site, your supplier can help guide the decision based on your goals and environment.

Bulk Mulch Delivery for Commercial Projects

Bagged mulch is rarely practical for large landscaping jobs. It increases labor costs, generates unnecessary waste, and limits how quickly your crew can work. Instead, opt for bulk mulch delivery from a trusted supplier.

The Compost Company delivers bulk mulch across Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Indiana, South Carolina and North Caroline. We provide premium hardwood mulch, compost mulch, and other varieties in volumes tailored to your job size.

If you’re managing multiple properties or working on a tight deadline, having the right material delivered on schedule can keep your team efficient and productive.

Quick Recap: Top Summer Mulching Tips

  • Choose mulch based on performance, not just appearance

  • Always water before applying mulch to trap moisture in

  • Apply 2 to 3 inches for best results

  • Keep mulch away from plant stems and tree trunks

  • Plan deliveries in advance and account for the weather

Looking for mulch that works hard all summer?

We offer bulk mulch delivery with flexible scheduling and contractor pricing. Get in touch to find the right product for your project.

Explore Mulch Products    Place An Order
July 18, 2025
Love0

A Buyers Guide to Bulk Mulch: What to Know Before You Order

By Bulk Products & Applications

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.

July 11, 2025
Love0

Why Landscaping Contractors Choose Bulk Compost Over Bagged Options

By Bulk Products & Applications

When working on a commercial landscape project, materials are everything.

The quality of compost, the cost per yard, and the delivery logistics all play a role in the success of the job. For professional landscapers and contractors, bagged compost often falls short, both in quantity and performance. That’s where bulk compost steps in.

Sourcing bulk compost for landscaping has become the standard for large-scale projects, and for good reason. Beyond cost savings, bulk compost offers consistent quality, better soil performance, and easier integration into project timelines.

Cost Efficiency That Makes Sense

For any commercial landscape job, cost per square foot matters. Bagged compost may seem convenient, but it adds up fast (both in time and money). Bulk compost allows landscapers to buy compost by the yard, reducing overhead and cutting labor required to open, haul, and distribute small bags.

Contractors looking for wholesale compost pricing often find bulk to be the only viable solution. With bulk compost delivery, there’s no need to make multiple trips to a garden center. One order, one delivery, and the job moves forward.

Consistency You Can Count On

Landscapers know the importance of soil structure and microbial health. Unfortunately, the quality of bagged compost can be inconsistent from one batch to the next. Moisture content, organic material, and nutrient balance often vary, and that can throw off the entire job.

By working with a commercial compost supplier, landscapers can access premium screened compost that’s been tested and refined for performance. The Compost Company, for example, offers bulk compost screened to ensure optimal texture and even distribution, which is ideal for turf installations, flower beds, and tree surrounds.

Built for Large-Scale Use

A bagged product simply isn’t built for acreage. When laying compost over large swaths of soil or working with heavy equipment, bags become inefficient. Bulk compost can be dumped directly on-site or spread by machine, making it the logical choice for:

  • Housing developments
  • Municipal parks
  • Commercial building materials
  • Athletic fields
  • Highway and DOT landscaping

When ordering compost in bulk, deliveries can be scheduled to match project phases, minimizing material handling and reducing job site congestion.

Better for the Environment (and Marketing!)

Sustainability sells. More and more clients want eco-friendly solutions, and contractors that align with those values have a competitive edge. Using bulk organic compost shows a commitment to environmental responsibility, especially when working with a supplier that diverts food waste and organic matter from landfills.

The Compost Company recycles local food waste into nutrient-rich compost, helping businesses and municipalities reduce their carbon footprint. Choosing a local compost supplier doesn’t just improve your margins, it also supports a circular economy.

Product Spotlight: Premium Screened Compost

Our Premium Screened Compost is one of the most requested products by commercial landscapers. It’s made from a carefully balanced blend of food waste, leaf material, and wood fines—screened to remove oversized material and ensure a fine, consistent texture.

Close-up of Premium Screened Compost with dark, rich texture

This compost is ideal for:

  • Topdressing turf
  • Amending poor soils
  • Installing beds and tree rings
  • Raised bed installations
  • Sod base prep

How to Order

Ordering bulk compost is easy. Simply contact our sales team with your project details, and we’ll help calculate how much you need, schedule your drop-off, and offer guidance on product selection.

You can also request:

  • Custom soil blends
  • Bulk much and compost mulch
  • Raised bed soil for community gardens or large residential installs

Delivery That Works Around You

Time is money. Reliable bulk compost delivery ensures your crew has what they need, when they need it. We deliver to commercial and landscaping clients across Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, and North Carolina. At The Compost Company, orders can be scheduled with flexible delivery windows that keep your operations moving.

Whether you’re ordering 20 cubic yards of compost or 200, the logistics are handled. That means fewer delays, less downtime, and no scrambling to restock.

Final Thoughts

The landscaping industry is fast-paced and demanding. Choosing the right materials helps contractors deliver better results, faster—and bulk compost is a key part of that. For landscape contractors looking to scale up their projects, lower material costs, and maintain soil health, the shift from bagged to bulk compost is a no-brainer.

Ready to upgrade your next landscaping job? Get in touch with The Compost Company for bulk compost delivery and product recommendations for your next project.

 

June 30, 2025
Love0