Mulch Calculator

Estimate mulch for beds and landscape areas, including bulk yards, bag count, delivery, labor, and a side-by-side cost comparison.

22-calculator project library Reviewed 2026-07-25Calculations run privately in your browser

Enter project details

Example values are prefilled

Calculate mulch cubic yards and bags, compare bulk and bag pricing, and estimate delivery and spreading labor.

Cubic feet = length × width × depth ÷ 12. Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27. Add settlement/waste before rounding bags or bulk yards.

Example: A 30 × 8 ft bed at 3 in deep needs 60 cu ft, or 2.22 cu yd. With 8% extra, that is about 2.4 cu yd or 33 two-cu-ft bags.

Curved beds should be measured in sections. Existing mulch depth and plant coverage can reduce the required amount.

Is bulk mulch cheaper than bags?

It often is for larger jobs, but delivery fees can make bags competitive for small areas.

How deep should mulch be?

Project requirements vary. Enter the depth appropriate for the material, existing layer, and plants.

Should old mulch be removed?

Not always. Measure the remaining layer and add only enough to reach the desired finished depth.