Free estimator
Mulch Calculator
Use this mulch calculator to estimate cubic feet, cubic yards, bag count, and optional material cost for garden beds, borders, and landscaping areas.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
How to measure
Measure the length and width of each bed, then choose your mulch depth. For irregular beds, split the space into smaller rectangles and add the estimates together. Most beds need a 2 to 3 inch layer.
Formula
cubic feet = length(ft) x width(ft) x depth(in) / 12
cubic yards = cubic feet / 27
bags needed = cubic feet / bag size cubic feet
Tips before buying
- Confirm whether your supplier sells mulch by bag, cubic foot, or cubic yard.
- Keep mulch thinner near stems, trunks, foundations, and hardscape edges.
- Add extra material for settling and uneven bed surfaces.
FAQ
How deep should mulch be?
Most landscape beds use about 2 to 3 inches of mulch. Use less near plant crowns and avoid piling mulch against trunks or stems.
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard of mulch?
One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet. Bagged mulch is usually sold by cubic feet, while bulk mulch is often sold by cubic yards.
Should I add extra mulch for waste?
A 5% to 10% extra allowance is useful for uneven beds, settling, edging, and measuring variation.