Mulch Calculator
Calculate cubic yards and 2-cubic-foot bags of mulch for beds, borders, and landscaping.
Planning estimate only. Confirm supplier quantities, local code requirements, and field measurements before ordering or construction.
Reviewed September 6, 2026Runs in your browser
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How this calculator works
Cubic yards = length × width × depth(ft) ÷ 27 × (1 + waste).
Worked example
A 30 × 8 ft bed at 3 in deep needs about 2.33 cubic yards including 5% extra.
Sources & assumptions
Volume uses exact rectangular geometry. The bag conversion uses 27 cubic feet per cubic yard and 2 cubic feet per bag; settling, bed shape, and bag fill variation can change the purchase quantity.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should mulch be?
Two to three inches is a common maintenance depth. Avoid piling mulch against trunks or building foundations.
How many bags are in a cubic yard?
A cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, so it contains about 13.5 two-cubic-foot bags.
Mulch coverage guide
Compare coverage at common depths, bulk yards, and bag quantities in How much mulch do I need?