Mulch Calculator
Calculate mulch bags or cubic yards from bed size and depth, then compare bag price vs bulk delivery. Free mulch calculator.
How to use this mulch calculator
Two to three inches of mulch suppresses weeds without smothering roots. A 2 cubic foot bag is the big-box standard; bulk by the yard wins on large beds and new installs. One cubic yard covers 108 sq ft at 3 inches.
This mulch calculator compares bag checkouts to a bulk dump. If you have many small beds, bags are easier to place. If you are mulching a whole yard, order yards and a tarp. Dye and cedar cost more than hardwood mix.
Formula
Worked example
A 20×8 ft bed at 3 inches is 40 cu ft = 20 bags of 2 cu ft, or 1.48 cubic yards bulk.
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Frequently asked questions
How much mulch do I need?
Square feet × depth in feet = cubic feet. Divide by 27 for yards, or by 2 for typical bags.
How many bags in a cubic yard?
About 13–14 bags of 2 cu ft (27 ÷ 2 ≈ 13.5).
How deep should mulch be?
2–3 inches for established beds. Keep it off tree trunks.
Bags or bulk?
Bulk is cheaper above roughly 1 cubic yard. Bags win for stair-step townhouse beds.
Will 1 yard cover 100 sq ft?
At 3 inches, 1 yard covers about 108 sq ft. At 2 inches, about 162 sq ft.
How many bags of mulch do I need?
Square feet × depth in feet = cubic feet, then divide by bag size (usually 2 cu ft). A 20×8 bed at 3 inches is 20 bags.
Is bulk mulch cheaper than bags?
Usually after about 1 cubic yard. This calculator compares your bag price to bulk per yard.
Results are estimates for informational purposes and are not financial, legal, or professional advice. Last reviewed 2026-08-20.