Best Places To Buy Wood Chips For Your Garden: A Guide

When it comes to enhancing your garden with wood chips, knowing where to buy them is essential for both convenience and quality. Wood chips are a versatile and eco-friendly option for mulching, pathways, and soil improvement, but sourcing them from the right place ensures you get the best value and product. Local garden centers and nurseries often carry a variety of wood chips, allowing you to see and feel the product before purchasing. Additionally, landscaping supply stores and lumberyards frequently offer bulk options, which can be cost-effective for larger projects. For those who prefer online shopping, platforms like Amazon, Home Depot, or Lowe’s provide a wide selection with delivery options. Lastly, checking with local tree removal services or municipalities can sometimes yield free or low-cost wood chips, though quality may vary. By exploring these options, you can find the perfect wood chips to meet your garden’s needs.

Explore related products

SuperMoss (23114) Orchid Potting Bark, Natural, 4 quarts

$10.79 $16.95

Back to The Roots 25.7qt (1 Cubic ft) Organic Premium Mulch

$28.99

Soil Sunrise 100% Natural Pine Bark Mulch Nuggets (30 Quarts) Small Mulch Chips for Indoor/Outdoor Container Gardening, Ideal for Soil Supplement, Houseplant Mulch, and Terrariums

$39.99

100% Natural Cedar Shavings | Mulch | Great for Outdoors or Indoor Potted Plants | Dog Bedding (4 Quart)

$12.95 $13.99

9 qt Organic Orchid Potting Bark -Natural Mulch for Potted Plants, Root Development of Orchid Plants and Garden Soil Amendment Mix

$24.39

Riare 2 Pack Coco Chips Substrate for Plants- 2.2lb 100% Organic Coconut Husk Brick with Low EC and pH Balanced, High Expansion Coconut Substrate Coco Husk Mulch for Garden Flowers, Herbs, Planting

$11.99 $13.8

Local garden centers and nurseries

When selecting wood chips from a local garden center, consider the source of the wood. Many nurseries partner with local sawmills or tree removal services, offering chips made from freshly cut trees or branches. This not only supports local businesses but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Ask the staff about the type of wood used—hardwoods like oak or maple break down slowly, enriching the soil over time, while softwoods like spruce decompose faster, providing quicker nutrient release.

One practical tip is to inquire about bulk purchasing options. Many garden centers offer wood chips in bulk, often at a lower cost per cubic yard compared to bagged products. If you’re mulching a large area, this can save both money and time. However, ensure you have a plan for transporting and storing bulk chips, as they can be heavy and take up space. Some nurseries even provide delivery services, which can be a lifesaver for larger projects.

For those new to gardening, local nurseries often provide expert advice on how to apply wood chips effectively. For example, a common recommendation is to spread a 2- to 3-inch layer of chips around plants, leaving a small gap around the base of each stem to prevent rot. Staff may also suggest mixing wood chips with compost to enhance soil fertility or using them as a pathway material to suppress weeds and improve garden aesthetics. This personalized guidance can make a significant difference in the success of your gardening efforts.

Finally, consider the seasonal availability of wood chips at local centers. Spring and early summer are peak times for mulching, so nurseries often stock larger quantities during these months. However, some may offer discounts on wood chips in late fall as they clear inventory for winter. Planning your purchase around these trends can help you secure the best deals while ensuring your garden remains well-mulched year-round.

Online retailers and marketplaces

Specialized gardening websites, such as Gardeners Supply Company and Burpee, cater specifically to green thumbs. These sites often provide wood chips tailored to gardening needs, like dyed varieties for aesthetic appeal or untreated options for organic gardens. For example, Gardeners Supply Company offers a 2-cubic-foot bag of cedar wood chips, ideal for small-scale projects. These retailers frequently include expert advice, such as applying a 2- to 3-inch layer of wood chips around plants to conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Marketplaces like Etsy and local online forums (e.g., Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace) connect buyers with small-scale suppliers or individuals selling excess materials. This option is particularly eco-friendly, as it often involves sourcing wood chips from local tree trimming services or landscaping projects. However, quality can vary, so inspect the product before purchase. A tip: ask sellers about the wood type, as hardwood chips last longer than softwood, and avoid chips from black walnut trees, which can inhibit plant growth.

For bulk purchases, consider big-box retailers with online ordering and delivery or pickup options, such as Home Depot or Lowe’s. These stores often sell wood chips in cubic yard quantities, suitable for large gardens or landscaping projects. Home Depot’s “Red Mulch” and Lowe’s “Brown Wood Mulch” are examples of affordable, widely available options. When ordering in bulk, ensure you have a plan for storage or immediate use, as wood chips can take up significant space and may attract pests if left uncovered.

Subscription-based services and eco-conscious platforms are emerging as innovative solutions. Companies like “ChipDrop” connect users with local arborists who deliver free wood chips directly to their gardens, though availability depends on location. These services align with sustainable practices, reducing waste by repurposing tree trimmings. While convenient, they may lack consistency in delivery timing, so plan ahead and have a storage area ready. This approach not only saves money but also supports local ecosystems by promoting resource reuse.

Landscaping supply stores

When visiting a landscaping supply store, consider the practicalities of transport and application. Most stores offer delivery for bulk orders, which is a lifesaver if you lack a truck or trailer. However, if you opt for pickup, bring a tarp to cover the load and prevent chips from spilling during transit. Once on-site, use a pitchfork or shovel to distribute the chips evenly, aiming for a 2–3 inch layer to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. Avoid piling chips directly against plant stems or tree trunks to prevent rot.

One of the standout advantages of landscaping supply stores is their expertise. Staff members are often knowledgeable about local soil conditions, climate, and plant compatibility, enabling them to recommend the best type of wood chips for your garden. For instance, cedar chips are naturally insect-repellent, making them a smart choice for vegetable gardens, while pine chips acidify soil, benefiting acid-loving plants like azaleas. This personalized guidance can save time and money compared to trial-and-error approaches.

Cost-wise, landscaping supply stores are competitive, especially for bulk purchases. While bagged wood chips at hardware stores might seem convenient, they’re often more expensive per volume. At a supply store, you can expect to pay $20–$50 per cubic yard, depending on the type of wood and whether it’s dyed or natural. Some stores also offer discounts for larger orders or repeat customers. To maximize value, calculate your garden’s square footage and desired chip depth before shopping to avoid over- or under-ordering.

Finally, landscaping supply stores often carry complementary products that enhance the functionality of wood chips. For example, you might find weed barrier fabric to lay beneath the chips for added weed control, or organic fertilizers to enrich the soil before mulching. Pairing these products with your wood chip purchase can streamline your gardening process and create a more cohesive, long-lasting solution. By leveraging the resources of a landscaping supply store, you’re not just buying wood chips—you’re investing in a healthier, more beautiful garden ecosystem.

Explore related products

SuperMoss (23261) Coco Mulch, 200 in3, Natural Brown

$10.72

Legigo 1.1 LB Coco Coir Chips for Plants- 100% Organic Coconut Chips Brick Potting Mix with Low EC & PH Balance, Coconut Husk Substrate Coco Husk Mulch for Garden, Planting, Orchid and Soil Mix

$7.59

Riare 10LBS Coco Chips Substrate for Plants- 100% Organic Coconut Husk Chips with Low EC and pH Balanced, High Expansion Coconut Substrate Coco Husk Mulch for Garden Flowers, Herbs, Planting

$23.74 $26.99

Organic Coco Chips for Plants (10lbs) - Coco Coir Chips - Coconut Husk Chips for Potting Soil, Garden Soil, & Seed Starter Soil - Coconut Mulch for Garden - Compressed Coconut Chips for Plants

$29.89

Premium Pine Bark Nuggets – Pine Bark Mulch for Gardens, Landscaping, Potted Plants, and Wood Chips for Garden Beds (0.3 CF - 8 L - 9 QTS)

$18.99

100% Natural Cedar Chips | Mulch | Great for Outdoors or Indoor Potted Plants | Dog Bedding | Pleasant Earthy Smell 4 Quarts

$12.95 $14.99

Bulk wood chip suppliers

For gardeners seeking cost-effective and sustainable mulch solutions, bulk wood chip suppliers offer a practical alternative to bagged products. Purchasing in bulk typically reduces costs per cubic yard, especially for large-scale projects like extensive flower beds or pathways. Suppliers often deliver directly to your location, saving time and effort compared to transporting multiple bags from a retail store. However, ensure you have adequate storage space and a plan for immediate use, as untreated wood chips can attract pests if left exposed for long periods.

When selecting a bulk wood chip supplier, consider the source and type of wood. Hardwood chips, such as oak or maple, decompose slower and provide longer-lasting mulch, while softwood chips like pine break down faster, enriching the soil with organic matter. Some suppliers offer dyed or treated chips for aesthetic purposes, but these may contain chemicals unsuitable for vegetable gardens. Always inquire about the wood’s origin to avoid materials treated with pesticides or harvested from unsustainable sources.

Ordering bulk wood chips requires careful measurement of your garden area. Calculate the square footage and desired depth (typically 2–4 inches) to estimate the volume needed. Suppliers often charge by the cubic yard, so overestimating slightly ensures full coverage. For example, a 10x10-foot garden mulched 3 inches deep requires approximately 2.75 cubic yards of chips. Factor in delivery fees and potential minimum order quantities, as some suppliers may require purchases of 5 cubic yards or more.

One often-overlooked benefit of bulk wood chip suppliers is their ability to provide custom blends or chip sizes. Finer chips are ideal for retaining moisture around plants, while larger chunks work well for weed suppression in pathways. Discuss your specific needs with the supplier to tailor the product to your garden’s requirements. Additionally, inquire about recurring delivery options if you plan to use wood chips regularly, as this can streamline the process and secure consistent pricing.

Finally, while bulk wood chips are environmentally friendly, their sustainability depends on responsible sourcing and use. Opt for suppliers that prioritize local, reclaimed wood to minimize transportation emissions and support regional forestry practices. Avoid using wood chips from black walnut trees near nightshade plants, as they release juglone, a natural herbicide that can inhibit growth. By choosing wisely, you can enhance your garden’s health while contributing to a greener ecosystem.

DIY sources like tree services

Tree services often have an abundance of wood chips as a byproduct of their work, making them an excellent DIY source for garden mulch. When trees are trimmed or removed, the branches and limbs are typically fed through a wood chipper, producing fresh, untreated wood chips. These chips are usually free or available at a minimal cost, especially if you’re willing to pick them up yourself. Contact local arborists or tree removal companies to inquire about availability—many are happy to offload this material rather than pay for disposal. Just ensure the wood hasn’t been treated with chemicals, as this could harm your garden.

One practical tip is to ask about the type of wood being chipped. Hardwoods like oak or maple break down more slowly, providing long-lasting mulch, while softwoods like pine decompose faster and can slightly acidify the soil, benefiting acid-loving plants like blueberries or azaleas. If you’re unsure, request a mix to balance these effects. Also, consider the quantity you need—a pickup truck bed can hold about 2–3 cubic yards of wood chips, which is enough to cover 100–150 square feet of garden bed at a 2–3 inch depth. Plan accordingly to avoid multiple trips.

While sourcing wood chips from tree services is cost-effective, there are a few cautions to keep in mind. Fresh wood chips can temporarily tie up nitrogen in the soil as they decompose, potentially affecting nearby plants. To mitigate this, avoid placing them directly against plant stems and mix them with compost or grass clippings to speed up decomposition. Additionally, inspect the chips for signs of invasive pests or diseases, as some tree services may not screen for these issues. If in doubt, let the chips age for a few weeks before using them to reduce any risks.

To maximize the benefits of DIY wood chips, incorporate them into your garden strategically. Use them as a weed barrier in pathways or around shrubs, where they’ll suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. For vegetable gardens, apply a thinner layer (1–2 inches) to avoid nitrogen depletion. Over time, as the chips break down, they’ll improve soil structure and add organic matter, enhancing fertility. Pairing this approach with composting creates a sustainable cycle, turning waste into a valuable resource for your garden.

Frequently asked questions