Mulch Calculator
Calculate how much mulch you need in cubic yards and bags. Enter the size of your bed and how deep you want the mulch.
Mulch Calculator
Find out how many cubic yards or bags of mulch you need for your beds.
2–3 inches is standard for most garden beds.
You'll need
0 cubic yards
Enter dimensions to calculate
How to calculate mulch
- Measure the length and width of your bed in feet.
- Decide on depth — 2–3 inches is standard for garden beds.
- Volume = length × width × depth (converted to feet).
- Divide by 27 to get cubic yards, since one cubic yard = 27 cubic feet.
How many bags of mulch in a cubic yard?
Bagged mulch usually comes in 2 cubic foot bags. Since a cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, that's about 13.5 bags per cubic yard. For larger areas, buying mulch in bulk by the cubic yard is almost always cheaper than bags.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should mulch be?
2–3 inches is ideal for most beds. Too thin won't suppress weeds or hold moisture; too thick (over 4 inches) can suffocate roots and cause rot. Refresh to maintain 2–3 inches each season.
Is it cheaper to buy mulch in bulk or bags?
Bulk by the cubic yard is usually much cheaper per volume than bags, but bags are easier to transport and handle for small jobs. For anything over about 2 cubic yards, bulk delivery is normally worth it.
Does this work for soil or gravel too?
The volume math is the same for any material spread to a depth — soil, compost, or gravel. Just note that gravel is sold by weight (tons) as well as volume, so check your supplier's units.