Mulch Calculator
Enter the bed size and depth and get the mulch you need in cubic yards and 2 or 3 cu ft bags, with the cost.
For several beds, add their areas and use “I know the area”. Subtract the area of shrubs and trees you are mulching around if it is large.
80 sq ft at 3 in deep
0.74 cubic yards · 10 bags of 2 cu ft
20 cu ft · 0.57 m³ · one cubic yard covers 108 sq ft at this depth
What this page cannot tell you
Fresh mulch settles after spreading, and bulk loads are measured loose. The depth is your choice; the page does not recommend one. Bags are sold by the volume printed on them.
How to calculate mulch
- Choose the bed shape. Rectangle, circle around a tree, or a known area.
- Enter the depth. In inches.
- Pick a bag size. 2 or 3 cu ft are common.
- Read yards and bags. And the cost if you enter prices.
10 mulching jobs this sizes
Spring bed refresh
A homeowner tops up beds by an inch.
Tree rings
Someone mulches circles around young trees.
New landscaping
A new bed is mulched 3 in deep.
Bulk versus bags
A gardener compares a delivered load with bags.
Playground mulch
A school sizes mulch for play areas (see the playground mulch calculator for safety depths).
Vegetable garden paths
Paths between beds get wood chips.
Rental property curb appeal
A landlord prices mulch for the front beds.
HOA common areas
A volunteer orders mulch for shared beds.
Rubber mulch
Someone checks bags of rubber mulch by volume.
Budgeting
A homeowner plans the season's landscaping spend.
How the mulch is worked out
Cubic feet = area × depth in inches ÷ 12; cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27; bags = cubic feet ÷ bag size, rounded up. One cubic yard covers 27 ÷ (depth ÷ 12) sq ft — 108 sq ft at 3 in.
Plain arithmetic in your browser.
Limits: mulch settles after spreading and bulk loads are measured loose. The depth is your choice; the page does not recommend one.
Frequently asked questions
How much mulch do I need?
Area × depth in inches ÷ 12 ÷ 27 = cubic yards.
How many bags of mulch in a yard?
13.5 bags of 2 cu ft, or 9 bags of 3 cu ft.
How much does a yard of mulch cover?
108 sq ft at 3 in, 162 sq ft at 2 in.
How do I measure a tree ring?
Choose Circle and enter the diameter.
Can I add several beds?
Add up their areas and use 'I know the area'.
Is bulk mulch cheaper?
Often for large jobs; enter both prices to compare.
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