Mulch is sold by the cubic yard (in bulk) or the bag, but garden beds are measured in square feet — so you need to factor in depth to bridge the two. A 2–3 inch layer is ideal for suppressing weeds and holding moisture.
This calculator turns your bed's area and desired depth into cubic yards and standard 2-cubic-foot bags, so you order the right amount in one trip.
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Frequently asked questions
How deep should mulch be?
2–3 inches for most beds — enough to block weeds and retain moisture without smothering plant roots.
How many bags in a cubic yard?
A cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, so about 13.5 standard 2-cubic-foot bags. Bulk delivery is cheaper for large areas.
Does mulch settle?
Yes, a little. Spreading slightly deeper than target accounts for settling over the first few weeks.