Mulch Calculator
By Area & Depth
Calculate mulch needed for a given area
Refresh Existing Mulch
Calculate mulch to refresh an existing layer
Formula
Cubic Yards = Area (sq ft) × Depth (in) / 12 / 27 | Bags (2 cu ft) = Area × Depth / 12 / 2
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should mulch be?
Most beds need 2-4 inches of mulch. Use 2-3 inches for fine mulch (shredded bark) and 3-4 inches for coarse mulch (wood chips). Keep mulch 2-3 inches away from tree trunks and plant stems to prevent rot.
How many bags of mulch do I need?
One cubic yard equals 13.5 bags of 2 cu ft mulch. For example: 500 sq ft at 3" depth needs about 4.6 cubic yards or 63 bags of 2 cu ft mulch.
When is the best time to apply mulch?
Apply mulch in mid to late spring after the soil has warmed. Applying too early keeps soil cold and delays plant growth. A fall top-up helps insulate roots for winter.
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