Material estimator

Mulch Calculator

Calculate cubic yards, cubic feet, bags, weight planning, and bulk cost for mulch beds and landscape areas.

How This Calculator Works

Mulch is sold by the bag or cubic yard, while garden beds are measured in feet and inches. This calculator converts bed size and depth into both buying units.

Formula

Mulch cubic feet = length x width x depth in feet. Cubic yards = cubic feet / 27. Bags = cubic feet / bag size, rounded up.

Assumptions

Most garden beds use 2-4 inches of mulch. Do not pile mulch against tree trunks or plant stems.

Example

A 20 ft by 10 ft bed at 3 inches deep needs 50 ft^3, or 1.85 yd^3. With 10% overage, buy about 28 two-cubic-foot bags.

Before You Buy

Bulk mulch is usually cheaper for larger beds, while bags are easier when hauling space is limited.
A refresh layer is usually thinner than a new bed. Do not bury plant crowns or pile mulch against trunks.
Mulch settles after watering and weather, so a modest overage is practical.

Common Questions

How deep should mulch be?

Many beds use 2-3 inches for refreshes and 3-4 inches for new beds or stronger weed suppression.

Is bagged or bulk mulch cheaper?

Bulk is usually cheaper for larger areas, while bags are easier for small beds and limited hauling capacity.

Should I include settling?

Yes. Mulch can settle after watering and weather, so a modest overage is practical.