Mulch and Gravel Calculator

Estimate cubic yards of mulch or gravel for an area and its weight in tons.

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What are you trying to calculate?

LengthWidthDepthRectangular area
Runs 100% in your browser.

Formula

yd³ = (length × width × depth/12) ÷ 27

About this calculator

Estimate the amount of mulch needed to cover a garden bed or landscaped area at a chosen depth, and calculate the number of bags or bulk cubic yards required.

How to use

  1. 1

    Enter the Length and Width of the area in feet.

  2. 2

    Enter the Depth in inches.

  3. 3

    Select the Material (Wood mulch, Gravel, or Sand) to see volume in cubic yards and approximate weight in tons.

Frequently asked questions

How deep should mulch be?

A depth of 2–3 inches is typical for flower beds. For paths or play areas, 4–6 inches may be used. Deeper layers can smother plants and retain too much moisture.

How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?

There are 27 cubic feet in 1 cubic yard (3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft).

Should I add extra mulch for waste?

It is wise to add 5–10% extra to account for spillage, uneven ground, or settling. For example, if the calculated volume is 50 cu ft, order about 55 cu ft.

Please note: Results are estimates for general information only and are not professional or medical/financial advice.