landscaping calculator

Mulch Calculator

Estimate mulch volume for garden beds, trees, or pathways before placing a material order.

Important Use Notice

Informational calculator only. Verify important outputs independently before legal, tax, medical, engineering, safety-critical, contractual, employment, or compliance use.

Estimate

Enter job values, review the estimate, then use the decision hints before ordering or quoting.

Estimate Results

Enter values to see the result.

Check

Using 2–3 inches depth when 3–4 inches is needed
Forgetting to subtract areas with existing plants

Example

20 ft × 8 ft bed, 3 inches deep → 1. 48 cubic yards

Formula

Volume (cu yards) = (Length × Width × Depth) / 27

Depth is usually 3–4 inches (0. 25–0. 333 ft). One cubic yard covers ~324 sq ft at 1 inch.

Add 10–15% extra for settling and uneven spreading

FAQ

How deep should mulch be?

3–4 inches is ideal. Too thin (1–2 inches) loses moisture control and weed suppression.

How much does one cubic yard cover?

324 sq ft at 1 inch depth, 162 sq ft at 2 inches, 108 sq ft at 3 inches.