Mulch Calculator
Cubic yards and bags of mulch for beds and landscaping. Updated for 2026.
Last reviewed July 2026 · Free · Nothing you enter is stored
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Planning estimate using standard formulas and 2026 national average prices — confirm quantities with your supplier and get local quotes.
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How this calculator works
Cubic yards = square feet × depth in inches ÷ 324 — the same volume math as gravel. Bag counts assume the standard 2 cu ft bag (13.5 bags per cubic yard). Bulk mulch averages about $50 per cubic yard for material; bagged mulch typically costs 2–3× more per yard equivalent but is easier to handle for small jobs.
Frequently asked questions
How many bags of mulch equal a yard?
13.5 of the standard 2 cu ft bags, or 9 of the 3 cu ft bags. If you need more than about 10 bags, bulk delivery is usually cheaper — compare your local price per yard against bag math.
How much does a yard of mulch cover?
108 sq ft at 3 inches deep, or 162 sq ft at 2 inches. One yard handles a typical foundation bed; an average suburban front-and-back refresh runs 3–5 yards.
Should mulch touch the house or tree trunks?
No. Keep mulch a few inches away from siding (termite inspection gap) and pull it back from tree trunks — 'mulch volcanoes' hold moisture against bark and invite rot and pests.
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