Mulch Calculator
Calculate how many cubic yards and bags of mulch you need for your garden beds, plus estimated cost.
Results
Visualization
How It Works
Mulch insulates soil, retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and gives garden beds a polished look. This calculator helps you buy the right amount so you do not run short or waste money on excess material.
The Formula
Volume (cu ft) = Length (ft) x Width (ft) x Depth (in) / 12
Cubic Yards = Volume (cu ft) / 27
Cubic Yards = Volume (cu ft) / 27
Variables
- L — Length of the area in feet
- W — Width of the area in feet
- D — Desired mulch depth in inches (typically 2-4 inches)
- 27 — Number of cubic feet in one cubic yard
Example
A 20 ft x 10 ft flower bed at 3 inches deep needs 200 x 0.25 = 50 cu ft, which is 50 / 27 = 1.85 cubic yards. At $35/yard, that costs about $65.
Tips
- Apply 2-3 inches for flower beds and 3-4 inches for pathways and play areas.
- Keep mulch 2-3 inches away from tree trunks and plant stems to prevent rot.
- Hardwood mulch lasts longer than softwood but costs slightly more.
- Refresh mulch once a year in spring for best weed suppression and appearance.
- Bulk delivery is usually cheaper per yard than buying individual bags for areas over 3 cubic yards.