Mulch Calculator
Estimate how much mulch you need for your garden or landscaping project. Enter the dimensions of your area and desired mulch depth to calculate the cubic yards or bags of mulch required.
Your Results
| Area Size | 0 sq ft |
|---|---|
| Mulch Volume | 0 cubic yards |
Mulch Coverage Estimates:
| Depth | Coverage Area |
|---|---|
| 1 inch | 0 sq ft |
| 2 inches | 0 sq ft |
| 3 inches | 0 sq ft |
| 4 inches | 0 sq ft |
About Mulch Calculator
Mulch is a layer of material applied to the surface of soil to conserve moisture, improve fertility, reduce weed growth, and enhance visual appeal. Calculating the right amount of mulch for your garden or landscaping project ensures you purchase the correct quantity.
How to Calculate Mulch Needs
The mulch calculator uses simple geometric formulas to determine the volume of mulch required:
- Rectangular Area: Length × Width × Depth
- Circular Area: π × Radius² × Depth
The calculator converts all measurements to consistent units before performing calculations. For cubic yards output, it divides the total cubic feet by 27 (since 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet).
Understanding Mulch Depth
The ideal mulch depth depends on the type of mulch and its purpose:
- Fine mulch (shredded bark, compost): 1-2 inches
- Coarse mulch (wood chips, bark nuggets): 3-4 inches
- Weed suppression: At least 3 inches
- Moisture retention: 2-3 inches
Too much mulch can suffocate plant roots, while too little won't provide adequate benefits.
Mulch Types and Coverage
Different mulch materials have varying coverage rates:
- Bark mulch: Covers about 100-110 sq ft per cubic yard at 3" depth
- Straw mulch: Covers about 200 sq ft per bale at 2-3" depth
- Rubber mulch: Covers about 75-80 sq ft per cubic yard at 2" depth
- Pine needles: Covers about 100 sq ft per bale at 2" depth
Buying Mulch in Bags vs. Bulk
Consider these factors when deciding between bagged and bulk mulch:
- Bagged mulch: Easier to handle, no delivery needed, but more expensive per cubic yard
- Bulk mulch: More cost-effective for large areas, but requires delivery and handling equipment
- Small projects (<5 cubic yards): Bags may be more convenient
- Large projects (>5 cubic yards): Bulk delivery is usually more economical