Landscape material estimator

Mulch Calculator

Calculate bulk mulch volume or the number of common bag sizes. Include a small allowance for settling and uneven beds.

No signupInstant resultUS + metric
Project dimensions

How it works

Calculate your material requirement

Estimate cubic yards and bag quantities of mulch for garden beds, borders, and landscaping projects.

The formula

Cubic yards = length × width × (depth ÷ 12) × quantity ÷ 27, plus the selected allowance.

Worked example

A 20 ft × 6 ft bed covered 3 in deep needs 30 ft³, or 1.11 yd³ before adding extra material.

Before you order

  • Two to three inches is common for many landscape beds.
  • Keep mulch away from trunks, stems, and building siding.
  • Bulk delivery is often economical for larger projects.

Common questions

Mulch Calculator FAQ

How many bags equal one cubic yard?

One cubic yard equals 27 ft³, which is 13.5 two-cubic-foot bags or 18 one-and-a-half-cubic-foot bags.

Should old mulch be removed?

Not always. Check the remaining depth and condition, then calculate only the amount needed to restore the target depth.

Does mulch settle?

Yes. Material type and moisture affect settling, which is why a modest allowance can be useful.