Mulch Calculator
Plan your landscaping project by calculating the precise amount of mulch required to cover your flower beds and garden areas.
How deep should mulch be?
For new garden beds or weed suppression, a depth of 3 to 4 inches is recommended. For established beds (maintenance), 2 to 3 inches is usually sufficient. Avoid "volcano mulching" around tree trunks, as this can trap moisture and cause rot.
How much does a cubic yard of mulch cover?
One cubic yard of mulch will cover approximately 324 square feet at 1 inch deep, 162 square feet at 2 inches deep, 108 square feet at 3 inches deep, or 81 square feet at 4 inches deep.
Is it better to buy mulch in bags or in bulk?
Bulk mulch is typically much cheaper per cubic yard but requires a truck or delivery service. Bags are convenient for small projects. One cubic yard is equivalent to about 13.5 bags of 2-cubic-foot mulch or 9 bags of 3-cubic-foot mulch.
When is the best time to apply mulch?
The best time to mulch is in mid-to-late spring after the soil has warmed up but before the summer heat arrives. Mulching too early in spring can keep the soil cool and slow down plant growth.