How to calculate mulch
Multiply the landscaping area by the desired mulch depth. Convert depth from inches to feet before calculating cubic feet.
Mulch calculation example
A 20-foot by 10-foot bed with 3 inches of mulch requires 50 cubic feet, or approximately 1.85 cubic yards.
Bulk mulch vs. bagged mulch
Bulk material is commonly ordered by the cubic yard. Bagged mulch is usually labeled by cubic feet, so the calculator converts the same volume into common bag sizes.
For complex shapes, divide the area into simpler rectangles, calculate each section separately and add the results.
Frequently asked questions
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?
One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet.
How many 2-cubic-foot bags are in one cubic yard?
One cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet, so it equals 13.5 bags of 2 cubic feet each.
How many 3-cubic-foot bags are in one cubic yard?
One cubic yard equals 9 bags of 3 cubic feet each.
Should I round bag quantities up?
Yes. You cannot normally purchase a fraction of a bag, so bag estimates should be rounded up.