Mulch Calculator
Free mulch calculator for cubic yards and cubic feet from bed length, width, and depth.
Results
2Cubic yards to buy
- 1.94Exact cubic yards
- 50Cubic feet
How it works
Volume (cu ft) = length × width × (depth ÷ 12). Divide by 27 for cubic yards, multiply by (1 + waste%), then round up.
Worked example
Example: 20 ft × 5 ft bed at 3 in deep with 5% waste → 25 cu ft ≈ 0.97 cu yd after waste, so buy 1 cubic yard.
Recommended mulch depth
Most flower beds use 2–3 inches of mulch. Trees and shrubs often need 3–4 inches. Avoid piling mulch against trunks (no “mulch volcanoes”).
Bags vs bulk
Bulk mulch is sold by the cubic yard and is cheaper for large beds. Bagged mulch is handy for small areas—check the bag for cubic feet and convert (27 cu ft = 1 cu yd).
Irregular beds
Split odd shapes into rectangles or use average length × average width. For circular beds, area ≈ π × radius², then multiply by depth in feet.
Frequently asked questions
How many bags of mulch in a cubic yard?
It depends on bag size. A common 2 cu ft bag needs about 14 bags per cubic yard (27 ÷ 2). Always check the bag label.
How deep should mulch be?
Two to three inches is typical for beds. Deeper than 4 inches can smother roots and hold too much moisture.
Does this mulch calculator include delivery waste?
Yes—enter a waste percentage (often ~5%) before we round cubic yards up for ordering.
Estimates only. Verify coverage rates and local requirements before purchasing materials. Not a substitute for professional advice.