Mulch calculator
Estimate bed area, cubic yards, bag count, bulk material range, bagged material range, and spreading labor.
Home Project Estimates
Mulch calculator
May 9, 2026
2 beds at 20 ft by 6 ft, 3.0 in deep.
Shopping list
- shredded hardwood mulch, bulk2.3 cu yd
- 2 cu ft bags30 bags
- Edging cleanup, rake, wheelbarrow, glovesAs needed
Assumptions
- 27 cu ft per cubic yard
- 3.0 in target depth
- Delivery fees and bed prep are not included
- U.S. near average; pricing data: U.S. near average pricing
Planning estimate only. Not a contractor quote, engineering advice, or permit review.
2 beds at 20 ft by 6 ft, 3.0 in deep.
Shopping list
- shredded hardwood mulch, bulk2.3 cu yd
- 2 cu ft bags30 bags
- Edging cleanup, rake, wheelbarrow, glovesAs needed
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Assumptions in this estimate
- 27 cu ft per cubic yard
- 3.0 in target depth
- Delivery fees and bed prep are not included
- U.S. near average; pricing data: U.S. near average pricing
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How this is calculated
- Bed area is length x width x number of beds.
- Volume is bed area x mulch depth converted from inches to feet.
- Cubic yards divide cubic feet by 27 and round up to the nearest tenth.
Assumption register
| Item | Low | Typical | High | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volume conversion | 27 | 27 | 27 | Standard U.S. volume conversion Checked 2026-05-10 · high confidence |
| Typical mulch depth | 2 | 3 | 4 | USU Extension mulch application guidance Checked 2026-05-10 · medium confidence |
| Bulk mulch price | 25 | 65 | 240 | HomeGuide mulch price and retail cross-checks Checked 2026-05-10 · low confidence |
Last reviewed: May 9, 2026. These values are planning defaults, not live prices.
Common mistakes
- Using too much mulch around trunks, stems, siding, or weep holes.
- Forgetting delivery minimums for bulk mulch.
- Comparing bagged and bulk prices without converting both to volume.
FAQ
How deep should mulch be?
Two to three inches is common for many beds. Use less near trunks and stems.
Is bulk cheaper than bags?
Often, but delivery fees and minimum orders can change the better option.
Does this include bed prep?
No. Weed removal, edging, fabric, and soil amendments are separate.
Limitations
This calculator estimates rectangular bed volume. Curved beds, plant spacing, delivery fees, and prep work need separate review.
This estimate is for planning only. It is not a contractor quote, engineering advice, or permit review.
Next step
Measure once more, compare the result with a real quote or shopping cart, and review the assumptions before buying materials.
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