Mulch Calculator: Bags & Cubic Yards

How many bags or cubic yards of mulch you need for beds at your chosen depth.

✓ Formula shown✓ No signupUpdated 2026-10-22
Before you buy

Most people under-order. Add the waste allowance shown above, and buy one extra bag or box for touch-ups. Compare current prices for mulch:

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Worked examples
BedCubic yardsBags
100 sq ft @ 3"0.93 yd³13 × 2 ft³ bags
200 sq ft @ 3"1.85 yd³25 × 2 ft³ bags
500 sq ft @ 2"3.09 yd³42 × 2 ft³ bags
1000 sq ft @ 3"9.26 yd³125 × 2 ft³ bags
How the calculation works (sources & assumptions)

Cubic feet = area × depth ÷ 12. A cubic yard is 27 ft³; common bags are 2 ft³ or 3 ft³. Most horticulture extension guides recommend 2–4" of mulch, kept a few inches away from trunks and stems.

FAQ

How many bags of mulch do I need for 100 sq ft?

At 3" deep that is 25 ft³, or 13 bags of 2 ft³.

Is bulk mulch cheaper than bags?

Usually, above about 2–3 cubic yards, although delivery fees vary.

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