Mulch Calculator
Mulch is measured by volume, so you need your bed area × depth in feet ÷ 27 for cubic yards, or that volume ÷ 2 cu ft per bag. Enter your bed size and depth below.
How to estimate mulch
Multiply the bed area by the depth in feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. To buy bags instead, divide the cubic-foot volume by the bag size — usually 2 cubic feet. For oddly shaped beds, total the sections first.
Bags or bulk?
Bagged mulch is easy to handle but costs more per yard. Once you need more than 6–8 bags, bulk delivery is usually cheaper. The calculator gives both the cubic yards (for bulk) and the bag count.
How deep
A 2–3 inch layer suppresses weeds and holds moisture without smothering roots. Refresh annually as it breaks down. For the soil underneath, see the topsoil calculator, or get a plain volume from the cubic yard calculator.
Frequently asked
How much mulch do I need?
Multiply bed area by depth in feet and divide by 27 for cubic yards. A 20×10 ft bed at 3 inches deep needs about 1.85 cubic yards, or 25 two-cubic-foot bags.
How many bags of mulch are in a cubic yard?
A cubic yard equals 13.5 bags at 2 cubic feet each, or 9 bags at 3 cubic feet. Bulk delivery is cheaper once you need more than about 6–8 bags.
How deep should mulch be?
Apply 2–3 inches for annual beds and around plants, and up to 4 inches for weed suppression. Keep mulch a few inches away from trunks and stems.