Mulch Calculator
How much mulch to order from square footage and depth — yards and bags. Click any i for detail.
Bed size
Area (sq ft)
i
Area
Bed or tree-ring area. Use the square footage calculator if you only have L×W. |
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Depth (inches)
i
Depth
Common refresh is 2–3 inches; new beds 3–4. |
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Bag size (cu ft)
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Bag size
Most big-box bags are 2 cu ft; some are 3. |
How to use this calculator
- Enter bed area in square feet.
- Choose depth in inches.
- Set bag size if you buy bags instead of bulk.
- Compare yards vs bags.
Results explained
Bulk is usually cheaper per yard. Bags are easier for small beds. Depth of 3 inches on 100 sq ft is about 0.93 yd³.
Quick reference: mulch coverage
Rule of thumb: cu yd = (sq ft × inches) ÷ 324.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| 1 yd³ at 2 in | ≈ 162 sq ft |
| 1 yd³ at 3 in | ≈ 108 sq ft |
| 1 yd³ at 4 in | ≈ 81 sq ft |
| 2 cu ft bag at 3 in | ≈ 8 sq ft |
Order extra for settling and irregular edges.
How the estimate is built
cu ft = sq ft × (depth in ÷ 12). cu yd = cu ft ÷ 27. Bags = cu ft ÷ bag size.
Example scenario
200 sq ft at 3 in = 50 ft³ = 1.85 yd³ ≈ 25 two-cubic-foot bags.
FAQ
Rubber vs wood mulch?
Volume math is the same; weight and coverage claims differ by product.
Should I till it in?
Usually no — mulch sits on top. Depth is installed thickness.
Bulk vs bags?
Bulk wins on price above roughly 1–2 yards once delivery is included.