Mulch Calculator
Find out how much mulch to buy for your beds. Enter the area and desired depth to get the volume in cubic yards, the number of standard 2-cubic-foot bags, and an estimated cost.
Updated June 2026 · Free · No sign-up
Your project
Estimate
1.48yd³
Mulch needed · Order bulk above ~3 yd³
- 2 ft³ bags
- 20bags
- Estimated cost (bagged)
- $80.00
Estimates are guidance only and exclude tax, labor, and site conditions unless stated. Confirm with a local pro.
How it's calculated
No black boxes — here is the exact math behind your estimate, so you can check it or adapt it for your own quote.
- 1
Cubic feet = length × width × (depth ÷ 12) - 2
Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27 - 3
Bags = ⌈ cubic feet ÷ 2 ⌉ - 4
Cost = bags × price per bag
Worked example
A 20 ft × 8 ft bed mulched 3 inches deep.
Inputs
- Bed length
- 20 ft
- Bed width
- 8 ft
- Depth
- 3 in
- Price per bag
- 4 $/bag
Result
- Mulch needed
- 1.48 yd³
- 2 ft³ bags
- 20 bags
- Estimated cost (bagged)
- $80.00
Get real quotes
Compare local pros for mulch
An estimate gets you a budget. A few competing quotes get you the real price. Tell us about the job and we'll help you find vetted contractors nearby.
Frequently asked questions
How many bags of mulch are in a cubic yard?
A cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, so it equals about 13.5 standard 2-cubic-foot bags. Bulk delivery is usually cheaper once you need more than ~3 cubic yards.
How thick should mulch be?
Two to three inches is ideal for established beds — enough to hold moisture and block weeds without smothering roots. Refresh annually rather than piling on.
Bulk or bagged?
Bags are convenient for small beds and easy to carry. Bulk by the cubic yard is far cheaper per unit and worth it for larger landscaping.