Advanced Mulch Calculator

The calculation is a simple volume formula:
1. Area (sq ft) = Length × Width (or based on the shape formula).
2. Volume (cu ft) = Area × (Depth in inches / 12).
3. Volume (cu yards) = Volume in cubic feet / 27 (since there are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard).
The waste factor is then added to this final number.

A depth of 2 to 4 inches is standard for most landscaping projects. A 3-inch layer is generally recommended as it's deep enough to suppress weeds and retain moisture without smothering plant roots. Use a shallower layer for annuals and a deeper layer for trees and shrubs.

It's always wise to order slightly more mulch than you calculate. A 5-10% waste factor accounts for uneven ground, spills during transport, and the natural compaction and settling of the mulch over time. This ensures you have enough to complete the job without having to make a second trip.

This depends on the bag size. The most common bag size is 2 cubic feet. Since there are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard, you would need 13.5 bags (27 / 2) to equal one cubic yard. This calculator uses this standard conversion.