Mulch Coverage per Bag
See how far one bag goes at common depths. Change the Unit System or Bag Size above to update the table.
| Depth | Coverage (primary) | Coverage (alt) |
|---|
Coverage is approximate. Actual spread varies with mulch chunk size, compaction, and surface irregularities. Add 5–10% extra.
Mulch Calculator – Volume, Bags, Loads & Cost
Enter your area, choose a mulch depth, and add a waste factor to account for settling and uneven surfaces. The calculator returns mulch volume in m³/yd³, the number of bags (2 cu ft, 3 cu ft, or 50–70 L), plus convenient wheelbarrow and truckload equivalents. If you add pricing, it estimates total cost for both bagged and bulk mulch so you can pick the most cost-effective option.
Recommended Mulch Depths
- Decorative cover / light refresh: 2 in (50 mm)
- Garden beds & moisture control (most common): 3 in (75 mm)
- Weed suppression & paths: 4 in (100 mm)
- Around trees: 2–4 in (50–100 mm), keep clear of the trunk flare
Mulch Buying Tips
- Bag vs bulk: Bulk is often cheaper for larger areas; bags are convenient for small jobs.
- Coverage varies: Chunk size and compaction change how far a bag spreads; order 5–10% extra.
- Keep mulch off trunks/stems: Leave a donut-shaped gap to prevent rot.
- Top up annually: Mulch breaks down and enriches soil, so expect minor annual top-ups.
How to Use This Mulch Calculator
- Select your unit system (Imperial or Metric) and the shape of your area.
- Enter dimensions (or diameter) and pick a target depth or set a custom depth.
- Adjust the waste/overage to cover settling and uneven ground.
- Choose a bag size or plan for bulk delivery; add pricing to compare costs.
Related Tools
Planning a larger landscaping project? Try our Sand Calculator, Gravel Calculator, and Topsoil Calculator.
FAQs
How many bags of mulch do I need per cubic yard?
One cubic yard is 27 cu ft. That’s about 13.5 bags at 2 cu ft each, or 9 bags at 3 cu ft each.
How much area does a 2 cu ft bag cover?
At 3 inches deep, one 2 cu ft bag covers ~8 square feet. At 2 inches deep, ~12 square feet.
Should I calculate mulch by weight?
Mulch is typically sold by volume, not weight. Weight varies with wood type and moisture, so volume is the reliable basis.