Mulch Calculator

Calculate the amount of mulch needed for your landscaping project.

Calculator

Enter Your Project Dimensions

Standard density is 0.5 cubic yards per ton

Table of Contents

1 How to Calculate Mulch Needed
2 Types of Mulch
3 Coverage Tips
4 Practical Examples
Guide

How to Calculate Mulch Needed

To calculate the amount of mulch needed for your project, follow these steps:

  1. 1
    Measure the length and width of your project area
  2. 2
    Determine the depth of mulch needed
  3. 3
    Calculate the volume in cubic yards
  4. 4
    Multiply by the density to get weight in tons
Types

Types of Mulch

Organic Organic Mulch

  • Wood Chips - For general landscaping
  • Bark - For decorative purposes
  • Straw - For vegetable gardens
  • Compost - For soil improvement

Inorganic Inorganic Mulch

  • Rubber - For playgrounds
  • Stone - For permanent landscaping
  • Landscape Fabric - For weed control
  • Plastic - For temporary use
Tips

Coverage Tips

Preparation

  • Clear the area of weeds
  • Level the ground
  • Install weed barrier
  • Water the soil

Application

  • Apply evenly
  • Maintain proper depth
  • Keep away from plant stems
  • Water after application
Examples

Practical Examples

Example 1 Flower Bed

A 10' × 8' flower bed with 3" depth:

Area = 10 × 8 = 80 sq ft

Volume = (80 × 0.25) ÷ 27 = 0.74 cubic yards

Weight = 0.74 × 0.5 = 0.37 tons

Example 2 Garden Path

A 20' × 4' garden path with 4" depth:

Area = 20 × 4 = 80 sq ft

Volume = (80 × 0.33) ÷ 27 = 0.98 cubic yards

Weight = 0.98 × 0.5 = 0.49 tons

Tools

Construction Calculators

Sand Calculator Metal Weight Calculator Tank Volume Calculator Gravel Calculator Tile Calculator

Need other tools?

Can't find the calculator you need? Contact us to suggest other construction calculators.