Mulch Calculator
Calculate mulch volume in cubic yards and bag count for any bed size and depth.
Inputs
Recommended depth: 2–4 in. Do not exceed 4 in around tree bases.
Multiply for several identical beds.
Enter to estimate total cost.
Cubic Yards
0.926
Bags Needed
13
Cubic Feet
25.00
Total Area
100.0sq ft
Step by step
Area
20 ft × 5 ft
= 100 sq ft
Cubic yards
100 × 3 ÷ 324
= 0.926 yd³
Convert to cubic feet
0.926 × 27
= 25.00 cu ft
Bags needed (2 cu ft bags)
⌈25.00 ÷ 2⌉
= 13 bags
How it works
Mulch volume in cubic yards equals (area in sq ft × depth in inches) ÷ 324. The constant 324 comes from 27 cubic feet per cubic yard × 12 inches per foot. Bags are rounded up to ensure you have enough. Recommended mulch depth is 2–4 inches; less won't suppress weeds, more can rot plant crowns.
Formula
Volume
Cubic yards = (area sq ft × depth inches) ÷ 324
- A_{sq\,ft}
- Area in sq ft
- d_{in}
- Depth in inches
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should I apply mulch?
2–3 inches for most garden beds. 3–4 inches for weed suppression and moisture retention. Never more than 4 inches around tree bases — 'mulch volcanos' cause root rot and bark decay.
How many cubic yards does a pickup truck hold?
A standard full-size pickup can hold about 1–2 cubic yards of mulch. A full-size pickup with a high-side extension can hold up to 3 cubic yards. Check the truck's payload rating before loading.
Why is the calculation ÷ 324?
There are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard. To convert sq ft × inches to cubic feet you divide by 12; to then convert to cubic yards you divide by 27. Combined: ÷ 12 ÷ 27 = ÷ 324.
When should I buy bags vs. bulk?
Bulk delivery (by the cubic yard) is usually more economical above 3 cubic yards. Below that, bagged mulch avoids delivery fees and is easier to handle.