Mulch Calculator
Enter your bed area and depth to see how many cubic yards of mulch you need — and how far it will spread.
2–3″ is standard for weed suppression.
How it works
We multiply length × width × depth (in feet) and divide by 27 to get cubic yards. Coverage is simply your bed area — one cubic yard spreads about 108 sq ft at 3″ deep.
Formula: (Length × Width × Depth÷12) ÷ 27 = cubic yards
Good for
- Flower and shrub beds
- Tree rings and borders
- Vegetable garden paths
- Slopes and erosion control
Tips
- 1 cubic yard ≈ 108 sq ft at 3″ — order a little extra for irregular beds.
- Keep mulch a few inches clear of tree trunks (avoid volcano mulching).
- For areas under ~1 yard, bagged mulch is convenient; bulk is cheaper beyond that.
References
Estimates use standard industry volume math. Cross-check your numbers against the pros:
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Open calculator →Mulch Calculator FAQ
How many square feet does a yard of mulch cover?
One cubic yard of mulch covers about 108 sq ft at a 3-inch depth, or 162 sq ft at 2 inches. Deeper beds use more.
What depth should I mulch at?
2–3 inches is standard for weed suppression and moisture retention. Avoid piling against tree trunks — keep it a few inches clear.
Should I buy bagged or bulk mulch?
For areas under ~1 cubic yard, bags are convenient. For large beds, bulk (delivered by the yard) is usually far cheaper per cubic foot.