Mulch Calculator
Updated Formulas shown
Mulch is sold by the cubic yard in bulk or in 2 and 3 ft³ bags. A 20 × 5 ft bed at 3 in needs 0.93 yd³ — 13 bags of 2 ft³.
Mulch needed
0.93 yd³
0.37 tons at 800 lb/yd³
- 2 cu ft bags
- 13
- 3 cu ft bags
- 9
- Weight
- 0.37 tons741 lb · 0.34 t
- Cubic feet
- 25 ft³
- Cubic meters
- 0.71 m³
- Area covered
- 100 ft²
Densities are typical loose figures; ask your supplier for theirs. Delivery minimums are often 1–3 yd³.
How to use it
- Spread 2–3 in on beds; 3–4 in for weed suppression; keep it 2 in away from tree trunks.
- Refreshing an existing bed usually needs only 1 in.
The formula
Cubic yards = area × depth (in) ÷ 324. One cubic yard covers 324 ft² at 1 in, 108 ft² at 3 in.
Quick reference
| Area | 2 in deep | 3 in deep | 4 in deep |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 ft² | 0.31 yd³ · 5 bags | 0.46 yd³ · 7 bags | 0.62 yd³ · 9 bags |
| 100 ft² | 0.62 yd³ · 9 bags | 0.93 yd³ · 13 bags | 1.23 yd³ · 17 bags |
| 200 ft² | 1.23 yd³ · 17 bags | 1.85 yd³ · 25 bags | 2.47 yd³ · 34 bags |
| 300 ft² | 1.85 yd³ · 25 bags | 2.78 yd³ · 38 bags | 3.7 yd³ · 50 bags |
| 500 ft² | 3.09 yd³ · 42 bags | 4.63 yd³ · 63 bags | 6.17 yd³ · 84 bags |
| 1000 ft² | 6.17 yd³ · 84 bags | 9.26 yd³ · 125 bags | 12.35 yd³ · 167 bags |
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Frequently asked questions
How many bags of mulch are in a yard?
13.5 bags of 2 ft³, or 9 bags of 3 ft³.
How much area does a yard of mulch cover?
108 ft² at 3 inches deep, 162 ft² at 2 inches.
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Estimates only. Check quantities with your supplier or contractor before ordering.