Mulch Calculator
Calculate how much mulch you need for your flower beds, landscaping, or playground. Get results in cubic yards and bags.
Last updated: January 12, 2026
Enter Your Measurements
2-3 inches for weed control and moisture
ft
ft
Quick:
in
Long-lasting, natural look. Best for flower beds. · $30-50/yard typical
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Results
1.85
cubic yards
Area:200 sq ft
Volume (cu ft):50 cu ft
Volume (cu yd):1.85 cu yd
Bags (2 cu ft):25 bags
Bags (3 cu ft):17 bags
Standard bags at Home Depot / Lowes
Est. Weight:926 lbs
Dry weight · wet mulch weighs 20-40% more
Calculation Steps
Area: 20 × 10 ft= 200 sq ft
Depth: 3 in= 0.25 ft
Volume: 200 × 0.25= 50 cu ft
Cubic Yards: 50 ÷ 27= 1.85 cu yd
Bags (2 cu ft): 50 ÷ 2= 25 bags
Privacy First - All calculations in your browser Expert-verified formula
How to Use This Calculator
- Select your project type — Choose flower beds, tree rings, pathways, or playground. This sets the recommended depth.
- Choose the area shape — Rectangle for most beds, circle for tree rings, triangle for corner areas.
- Enter your measurements — Measure length and width with a tape measure. For irregular beds, break into sections and add results.
- Select mulch type — Different mulches have different weights and prices. Hardwood is most common, cedar repels insects.
- Review results — See cubic yards for bulk delivery, or bag counts for smaller projects. Enable cost estimate for budgeting.
How We Calculate
Volume (cu yd) = (Length × Width × Depth) ÷ 27
Example: 20×10 ft Flower Bed at 3" Deep
- • Area: 20 ft × 10 ft = 200 sq ft
- • Depth: 3 inches = 0.25 ft
- • Volume: 200 × 0.25 = 50 cu ft
- • Cubic yards: 50 ÷ 27 = 1.85 cu yd
- • Bags (2 cu ft): 50 ÷ 2 = 25 bags
Coverage Reference (1 cubic yard covers):
- • At 2" deep: 162 sq ft
- • At 3" deep: 108 sq ft
- • At 4" deep: 81 sq ft
- • At 6" deep: 54 sq ft
Standard volume calculation. Mulch settles 10-20% after spreading.