So you are staring at your backyard and trying to calculate the amount of mulch you need to buy.
At that moment, it’s very easy to feel like you’re barking up the wrong tree, but don’t worry, you’ll find this math super simple.
In general, mulch must be 2 to 4 inches deep. But before you jump the gun, hold for a moment, think about your area, consider its thickness and moisture needs. Therefore, without further ado, let’s dig right in.
Understanding Mulch Measurements
Mulch measurements seem confusing at first but let’s keep it simple. We usually measure Mulch in cubic yards. If you don’t know what a cubic foot is?
It’s just a small box, one foot by one foot by one foot and simply it’s just one foot in all directions.
That’s it! not any rocket science here.
Mulch bags often come in sizes like 1.5, 2, or 3 cubic feet; therefore, understanding these calculations beforehand keeps you from scratching your head at the store. Instead, you are not shooting in the dark with picking the bags, as you know exactly what you want.
So, let’s break down these technical terms so you won’t end up right back to square one later.
The Quick Answer: How Many Bags of Mulch Do You Really Need for a Yard?
Now you understand what a cubic foot is? It’s time to see how Many Bags of Mulch are in a Yard. Let’s do some math here. There are a total of 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard. As mulch bags come in 3 different sizes, we’ve to calculate the amount of bags separately.
Here’s a simple table summarizing the information:
| Bag Size (Cubic Feet) | Bags of Mulch Needed per Yard |
|---|---|
| 1.5 cubic feet | 18 bags |
| 2 cubic feet | 13.5 bags (~14 bags) |
| 3 cubic feet | 9 bags |
For 1.5 cubic feet
These bags contain 1.5 cubic feet of Mulch so the yard we’ll be requiring a total of 18 bags of Mulch for a yard.
For 2 cubic feet
These bags contain 2 cubic feet of Mulch so the yard we’ll be requiring a total of 13.5 (~14 bags) of Mulch for a yard.
For 3 cubic feet
These bags contain 3 cubic feet of Mulch so the yard we’ll be requiring a total of 9 bags of Mulch for a yard.
Summary Of Bag Sizes Of Mulch
For different sizes of bags, 1 yard of Mulch is equal to:
- 18 bags of 1.5 cu.ft size.
- 13 1/2 bags of 2 cu.ft size.
- 9 bags of 3 cu.ft size.
How to Calculate Mulch for Your Specific Space?
With all the theory done, it’s time to calculate the Mulch based on the specific space you have. Above all go and grab a measuring tape and measure the length and width of the areas in feet.
Now multiply them both to get the square footage (we’ll be using it later). Now, cover the depth you decided for the Mulch, ideally 2-4 inches, and convert this in feet as well (4 inches is equal to 0.25 feet.
Multiply this with square footage, and this will give the total cubic feet needed. Divide them by 27 to get the cubic yard required. Now, check the bag sizes and find the right amount with no sweat. Simple, Right? Let’s see it in equations.
1 – Square Footage:
Square Footage = Length (ft) × Width (ft)
2 – Convert Depth to Feet:
Depth in feet = Depth in inches ÷ 12
3 – Cubic Feet Needed:
Cubic Feet Needed = (Length × Width × Depth in feet)
4 – Cubic Yards Needed:
Cubic Yards = (Cubic Feet Needed) ÷ 27
5 – Number of Bags:
Number of Bags = (Cubic Feet Needed) ÷ (Bag Size in cubic feet)
Factors to Consider When Calculating Mulch
Knowing the amount of bags based on the quantity and space you can’t decide the exact amount of Mulch. Some factors play an important factor while calculating the mutch. Let’s break them down.
That’s it. With all these factors in mind, you are ready to hit the nail on the head, and you’ll find it easier to settle on just the right amount.
The final words…
And you have all you need to get the amount of mulch bag you need for a yard. Remember, don’t overlook the factors mentioned above, as they will affect the amount needed.
Head on over to Tiny Garden Habit for more tips and tricks to make your gardening life easier. Don’t wait; measure your space, do the math, and get mulching.
Your yard, and your plants, will thank you!
