Randall Wingett

After laying, trimming to fit and securing the weed block fabric with staples on top of the loose, bare soil, we were ready to spread some mulch. Cascade Bark in Sequim, Washington is our favorite nearby location for getting high quality bark and mulch products in bulk. A quick inspection of their products made for an easy choice: small nugget pine bark mulch, although more expensive than shredded wood, would be an attractive ground cover for our expanded garden area and along our 6-foot cedar fence and beneath the tall fir trees. My handy 1997 Nissan pickup was again helpful for making four trips to Cascade Bark, each time loaded with 1.5 yards of small nuggets. Then with Diane’s assistance, we transported the dry, light weight pine bark nuggets in wheelbarrows, strategically dumping it as we progressed. We had fun watching the transformation as we spread the nuggets using rakes and our hands to a depth of 2-4 inches on top of the fabric and then on top of the existing soil around the plants, covering the full length of our east border fence line. Thus, both Phase 1 and Phase 2 of our backyard landscaping project is now complete!

Total Cost: $1,066

Weed Block Fabric, staples & gloves: $140 1 yd gravel: $48 Gravel Delivery: $125 Flagstone 24x24 inch porcelain pavers (12 @ $19.97): $264.13 Flagstone rock steps (11 @ $17.97): $198 Subtotal: $775 6 yds small nugget mulch: $291