🍂 Mulch Calculator
Calculate how many bags or cubic yards of mulch you need for your landscaping project.
Enter Garden Bed Dimensions
ft
ft
Bulk Delivery Required
0
Cubic Yards
Using 2 Cu. Ft. Bags
0 bags
Standard size at Home Depot / Lowe's
Using 3 Cu. Ft. Bags
0 bags
Larger premium size
Total Volume: 0 Cubic Feet
Bags vs. Bulk Delivery
Most big-box hardware stores sell mulch in 2 cubic feet bags. If your calculation shows that you need more than 2 to 3 cubic yards (which equals 27 to 40 bags), it is almost always cheaper and less back-breaking to order bulk delivery from a local landscape supply company.
Landscape companies deliver bulk mulch directly to your driveway in a dump truck, and they charge "per yard".
How Deep Should I Mulch?
- 1 Inch: Only recommended if you are lightly "top-dressing" an area that already has plenty of existing mulch from last year.
- 2 to 3 Inches: The standard depth. This provides excellent weed suppression and helps the soil retain moisture during hot summers.
- 4+ Inches: Not recommended around trees or plants, as it can suffocate roots. Only use 4+ inches for pathways or bare playgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bags make a cubic yard? +
A cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet. Therefore, it takes exactly 13.5 bags (if they are 2 cu. ft. bags) to make one cubic yard. If you buy 3 cu. ft. bags, it takes exactly 9 bags.