How This Mulch Calculator Works
Choose rectangle (length × width) or circle (diameter), enter a mulch depth in inches, and select a mulch type. The tool converts depth to feet, multiplies by area to get cubic feet, then divides by 27 for cubic yards and by common bag sizes (1.5, 2, 3 cu ft) to show how many bags to buy.
Bag Mulch Calculator & Cubic Yard Mulch Calculator
Use the summary above to see bags of mulch by size and the equivalent cubic yards. 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet. For example, at 2″ depth, 100 ft² needs about 16.7 cu ft (≈0.62 cu yd) which is 9 bags at 2 cu ft.
Bark, Wood, Rubber, Pine Straw, Rock & Playground Mulch Calculator
- Bark/Wood: 2–3″ typical for beds (weed suppression & moisture).
- Rubber: 1.5–2″ landscape use; deeper for play zones per safety spec.
- Pine Straw: often sold by bale, but volume-based estimates still help.
- Rock/Stone: 1–2″ typical; heavier than organic mulches.
- Playground (EWF): 6–12″ depending on fall height; check local guidelines.
Mulch Calculator FAQs
How many bags of mulch are in a yard?
One cubic yard is 27 cu ft. That’s 18 bags (1.5 cu ft), 14 bags (2 cu ft), or 9 bags (3 cu ft).
How do I calculate mulch coverage?
Area (ft²) × depth (in) ÷ 12 = volume in cu ft. Divide by 27 for cu yd. Divide by your bag size for bag count, then round up.
How much mulch do I need for 100 ft²?
At 2″: 100 × 2 ÷ 12 = 16.7 cu ft (≈0.62 cu yd) → 9 bags at 2 cu ft. At 3″: ≈25 cu ft (0.93 cu yd) → 13 bags at 2 cu ft.
What depth should I use?
Decorative beds: 2–3″ for organic mulch, 1–2″ for rock. Playground zones: follow safety guidance (often 6–12″ of engineered wood fiber).
Can I mix shapes or irregular areas?
Break the space into rectangles/circles, calculate each, and add volumes. This page’s calculator supports both shapes.
Does mulch settle?
Yes—new mulch may settle 10–20%. Add a cushion (round up bags) for full coverage after settling.