Mulch Calculator
Estimate bulk cubic yards and bagged mulch counts for garden flower beds, landscaping borders, and trees.
- 14 × 2 cu ft standard bags of mulch
- 1.02 cubic yards total coverage (27.50 cu ft / 0.78 m³)
Standard Project Worked Example (No JavaScript Required)
Baseline Scenario: 100 sq ft bed, 3 in deep (0% waste): 25.00 ft³, 0.93 yd³, 13 × 2 ft³ bags (12.5 rounded UP).
Our online calculator updates dynamically in real-time as you type your project measurements. If JavaScript is disabled, use the formula reference below.
How This is Calculated
Volume (cu ft) = Area (sq ft) × (Depth (in) / 12). Cubic Yards = Volume / 27. Bag Count = Volume / Bag Size (standard bag is 2.0 cu ft, giving 13.5 bags per cubic yard). All bag counts round UP to full purchasable bags.
Sourced Reference Constants
- All material yields and bag volumes are derived from official manufacturer technical data sheets.
- Buy quantities are strictly rounded UP to full purchasable units (bags, boxes, sheets, gallons, pavers).
- Waste allowances are user-adjustable to fit complex room alcoves, diagonal patterns, or soil conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bags of mulch in a cubic yard?
One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet, which yields 13.5 bags of standard 2 cubic foot mulch (14 bags when rounded up).
How deep should garden mulch be applied?
The standard recommended mulch depth is 3 inches for flower beds and shrub borders to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
How much area does one bag of mulch cover?
A standard 2 cubic foot bag of mulch covers 8 square feet at 3 inches depth, or 12 square feet at 2 inches depth.