Cover, without overbuying

Mulch volume calculator

Estimate mulch by area and finished depth, then translate the answer into yards, liters, or bags.

Live worksheet

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Each field explains what to measure, where to find it, and how to read the result. Change any value to update the plan instantly.

Inside lengthftThe usable long edge inside the bed walls. Measure soil area, not the outside frame.Example: A standard raised bed is often 8 ft long.Inside widthftThe usable short edge inside the bed walls.Example: Measure 4 ft from inner wall to inner wall.New mulch depthinThe finished loose layer after spreading. Measure from the soil surface to the top of the new mulch.Example: Use 3 in when that is appropriate for your material.Planning reserve%A small extra allowance for settling, spillage, and imperfect measurements. It is added after the base volume.Example: 5% is a modest starting allowance for mulch.Bag sizecu ftThe volume printed on one bag—not its weight. Enter the exact size sold to you.Example: Common US labels include 1.5 cu ft and 2 cu ft.

Planned mulch volume

0.31cubic yards

Cubic feet8.4

Liters238

Whole bags5

This estimates volume only. Match finished depth to the mulch material and keep it away from stems and trunks.

Sources & further reading

Mulching woody ornamentals with organic materialsOregon State University Extension

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Mulch depth is a design choice, not a default setting

Sources & further reading