How to Calculate Mulch for Your Landscape
Mulch is measured in cubic yards for bulk orders or by the bag for smaller projects. One cubic yard of mulch covers about 108 square feet at 3 inches deep, or 162 square feet at 2 inches deep.
Formula: Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (in) ÷ 12 ÷ 27 = Cubic Yards. A standard 2-cubic-foot bag covers about 8 square feet at 3 inches deep.
Recommended Mulch Depths
- Garden beds: 2-3 inches
- Tree rings: 3-4 inches (keep 6" from trunk)
- Walkway borders: 2-3 inches
- Playground areas: 6-12 inches (rubber mulch for safety)
- Slope erosion control: 3-4 inches
Bulk vs. Bagged Mulch
Bulk mulch is significantly cheaper per cubic yard — typically $20-45 per yard delivered, compared to $3-7 per 2-cubic-foot bag ($40-95 per yard equivalent). For anything over 3 cubic yards, bulk delivery saves money and time.
How Often to Replace Mulch
Organic mulch (hardwood, cedar, pine bark) decomposes over 1-2 years and should be topped off annually. Cedar lasts longer (2-3 years) due to natural oils. Rubber mulch doesn't decompose but costs 3-5x more upfront.