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Trowelly

Mulch Calculator

Enter the size of your beds and how deep you want the mulch to see how many cubic yards or bags to buy.

Units
ft
ft
in

Beds usually need 2–3 in; refresh existing mulch with 1 in.

%
Add prices for a cost estimate (optional)
per yd³
per bag

Results

Cubic yards
0.97 yd³
Cubic feet
26.3 ft³
Cubic meters
0.74 m³
Approximate weight
0.29 tons
Approximate weight (metric)
0.26 t
2 ft³ bags
14 bags
Area covered
100 ft²
  • Weight uses a typical wood mulch density of about 0.3 tons per cubic yard; moisture and stone size change this, so confirm with your supplier.
  • Includes 5% extra.

Where to buy

Quantities from your result, with links to search each store.

Your ZIP code stays on this device. We use it to show stores and suppliers in your area.

A 2 ft³ bag is about 0.074 yd³, so bulk delivery pays off above roughly 3 yd³.

Links search each store’s website. Check prices and stock before you go.

How to use the mulch calculator

  1. Choose a Shape and enter its dimensions, or pick I know the area and enter the total square footage.
  2. Set the Depth: 2–3 in for new beds, or 1 in to refresh existing mulch.
  3. Choose wood mulch or rubber mulch under Material.
  4. Keep the 5% Extra allowance or change it, and pick a Bag size of 1.5, 2 or 3 ft³.
  5. Optionally add a bulk price per cubic yard or a price per bag.

How it works

Mulch is sold by volume, either loose by the cubic yard or in bags labeled in cubic feet. The calculator multiplies area by depth, adds a 5% allowance by default and converts to cubic yards and bag counts.

An approximate weight is shown for hauling: about 600 lb per cubic yard for shredded wood mulch (it ranges roughly 400–800 lb depending on moisture) and 900 lb for rubber mulch.

Volume (ft³) = area (ft²) × depth (in) ÷ 12 × (1 + extra %)

Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27

Bags = cubic feet ÷ bag size (ft³), rounded up

Worked example

With the default inputs, a 10 × 10 ft bed covered 3 in deep is 25 ft³. Adding 5% gives 26.3 ft³, or 0.97 cubic yards.

In 2 ft³ bags that is 26.3 ÷ 2 = 13.1, rounded up to 14 bags. The load weighs roughly 0.29 tons.

Tips before you buy

  • Keep mulch a few inches away from tree trunks and plant stems to prevent rot and pest damage.
  • More than 3–4 in of mulch can keep water and air from reaching roots. Top up thin spots with about 1 in each year.
  • Measure odd-shaped beds as a few rectangles, circles and triangles, then add the areas and use I know the area.
  • Pull weeds and water the soil before mulching so the mulch holds moisture in.

Frequently asked questions

How many square feet does a yard of mulch cover?

One cubic yard covers about 108 ft² at 3 in deep, 162 ft² at 2 in and 324 ft² at 1 in.

How many bags of mulch are in a cubic yard?

A cubic yard is 27 ft³, so it equals 13.5 bags of 2 ft³ (buy 14), 9 bags of 3 ft³ or 18 bags of 1.5 ft³.

How deep should mulch be?

Most beds do well with 2–3 in. To refresh existing mulch, 1 in is usually enough.

Is bagged or bulk mulch cheaper?

Bags are convenient for small areas. Above about one cubic yard, bulk mulch is usually cheaper per yard even with delivery, so compare local prices.

How much does a yard of mulch weigh?

Shredded wood mulch typically weighs 400–800 lb per cubic yard depending on moisture; the calculator uses 600 lb. Rubber mulch is heavier, about 900 lb.

Results are estimates based on the measurements you enter and typical material properties. Products vary, so check quantities with your supplier and follow product labels and your local building codes. Read the full disclaimer. Last reviewed October 9, 2026.