How Much Mulch Do I Need? Coverage Calculator and Buying Guide
One cubic yard covers 108 square feet at 3 inches deep. Here is the complete mulching guide.
Formula: Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (inches) / 12 = cubic feet. Divide by 27 = cubic yards. A 20×6 foot bed at 3 inches deep: 20 × 6 × 3/12 = 30 cubic feet = 1.1 cubic yards. One cubic yard weighs 400-800 pounds depending on moisture. Buy 10% extra because settling and irregular shapes use more than calculated.
Bags vs Bulk
A standard 2-cubic-foot bag covers about 8 square feet at 3 inches deep. At $4-6 per bag, that is $54-81 per cubic yard. Bulk delivery: $25-55 per cubic yard plus $50-100 delivery fee. For anything over 3 cubic yards, bulk is dramatically cheaper — you could save $100-200 versus buying individual bags. Most landscape supply companies deliver with a minimum order of 1-2 cubic yards.