Mulch calculator
Find how much mulch or bark you need for a garden bed, in cubic yards, cubic metres and bags.
About this calculator
Enter the size of the bed and the depth of mulch. The result is given in cubic yards, cubic metres and cubic feet, with the number of 2 cu ft bags or 50 litre bags.
A layer of 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) works well for most beds.
Measurements and terms explained
- Cubic yard
- A cube 3 feet on each side, 27 cubic feet or about 0.765 m³.
- Cubic metre
- A cube 1 metre on each side, 1,000 litres or 1.308 cubic yards.
- Depth
- The thickness of the mulch layer, measured in inches or centimetres.
- Settling allowance
- Extra material because mulch compacts after it is laid.
Common questions
How deep should mulch be?
2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm). More can smother roots and trap too much moisture.
How many bags make a cubic yard?
A cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, so 13.5 bags of 2 cu ft.
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