Black Dyed Mulch

We stock bulk mulch by the cubic yard and also in bags of 2 cubic feet.

We deliver a maximum of 12 cubic yards (324 cubic feet) of mulch on one truck to your location. One yard of black dyed mulch is equivalent to 800 pounds. The maximum amount of weight we can fit on one truck is 12,500 lbs. If you need more than 12 cubic yards of black dyed mulch, it will require additional truck(s) and additional delivery fee(s).

In addition to delivery, we can also provide installation services. If you’re interested in having our team install your black dyed mulch, please book a landscape appointment and select Garden Cleanup, Mulch and Sod as the appointment type. If you are interested in having our landscape design team apply mulch to your plants, please book a Full Service landscape design appointment.

Before installing your dyed mulch, keep an eye on the weather forecast so you are not placing it in your landscape during a rainstorm. If your dyed mulch encounters rain within the first 24 to 48 hours of placing it, the coloring will run and fade.

To install black dyed mulch, spread the mulch on your desired area about 2 to 3” deep. If you are placing it around a plant, taper the mulch down toward the base of the plant so that there is a 1” area around the base that is free from mulch. Placing a 2 to 3” layer of mulch up against the base of the plant may lead to disease and rot.

What is the purpose of mulch and is it necessary in the garden?

Mulch helps to conserve soil moisture, prevent weed growth and add organic matter to the soil as it breaks down, providing nutrients to plants through decomposition. Without mulch, your soil can dry out more quickly and provide a space for weeds to take over.

How do I know what kind of mulch to use?

Mulch is mostly an aesthetic preference, meaning you can choose based on the color, texture and style you want to look at in your landscape. All of our mulches provide the same benefits in terms of retaining moisture, preventing weed growth and adding organic matter back to the soil during decomposition. Those who choose black dyed mulch are usually drawn to it due to its unique coloring.

There are a few functional components to keep in mind when you’re selecting your mulch. If the area you are mulching is on a slope, we suggest using a finer shredded mulch, such as shredded hardwood, premium oak bark, or premium cypress mulch. The stringy, sinewy texture of these mulches anchor in better than mulch chips, which would potentially run right down a hill. You’ll want to stay away from mulches that have large nuggets, like Rappahannock and silver dollar as large clusters placed on a slope can move with rainwater.

If you are unsure of which mulch to use, you can visit us at Merrifield Garden Center with photos of your landscape and we can help you find the perfect match. We also have sample bins available at each location where you can see, touch and explore the various options.

How much mulch should I use?

We recommend putting your mulch down at a depth of 2 to 3”. If you add more than 3” of mulch on top of your plants, it can create a barrier that inhibits air and water from getting into the soil.

How often should I replace the mulch and do I have to take up the old mulch?

We recommend replacing your mulch about once a year. You can do this at any point of the year, but early spring is typically a great time as you are already doing spring cleaning in your garden.

As the mulch ages, you may see an inch or two of runoff or decomposition as the broken down hardwood enriches the soil with nutrients, leaving a thin layer of old mulch on your plants. When you’re replenishing your mulch each year you can leave the existing thin layer of the old mulch in place and top dress it with the new layer.

Is the dye safe for pets, kids, and plants?

Yes, the colorants are water-based and non-toxic. Once the mulch is fully dry, it’s safe for pets and children.

How long does the color last?

The black color typically lasts 6 to12 months, depending on sunlight exposure and rainfall.

Does black dyed mulch fade?

All dyed mulches fade over time due to UV sunlight. Black mulch usually fades to a dark brown/charcoal color after several months in the landscape.