How Much Mulch Do You Need?
Calculate cubic yards and bags of mulch for garden beds. Enter bed dimensions and desired depth for exact quantities.
Mulch Coverage Formula
Cubic yards = (Length × Width × Depth in inches ÷ 12) ÷ 27. A 20×6 foot bed at 3 inches deep: (20 × 6 × 0.25) ÷ 27 = 1.1 cubic yards. For multiple beds, calculate each and add together. One cubic yard covers approximately 108 sq ft at 3 inches deep or 162 sq ft at 2 inches. Standard recommendation: 2-3 inches for most garden beds, 3-4 inches for weed suppression.
Bulk vs Bags
Bulk delivery: $25-45 per cubic yard + $40-80 delivery fee. Best for 3+ cubic yards. Bags (2 cu ft): $3.50-6 each. You need 13.5 bags per cubic yard. For 3 cubic yards, that is 40+ bags at $140-240. Break-even: Bulk delivery usually saves money starting at 3-4 cubic yards. Below that, bags are more practical (no delivery fee, easier to store, less waste).
Mulch calculator searches spike March-May as homeowners start spring landscaping. The audience has immediate purchase intent — they need mulch this weekend. Garden center and landscaping supply advertisers pay $3-8 CPC for these searches.
