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Mulch & Gravel Calculator
Calculate landscape material for garden beds, paths and driveways. Choose mulch, gravel, topsoil, sand or crushed stone, enter the area and depth, and get cubic yards, bags and approximate weight - plus the bulk cost.
How to use the Mulch & Gravel Calculator
- Choose the material.
- Enter length and width in feet.
- Enter the depth in inches.
- Enter bag size and bulk price.
Formula
Example
A 20 × 4 ft bed with 3 inches of mulch needs 20 cu ft = 0.74 cubic yards, or 10 bags of 2 cu ft.
Depth guide
- Mulch: 2-4 in
- Gravel path: 3-4 in
- Gravel driveway: 4-6 in over a base
- Topsoil for lawns: 4-6 in
Choosing the right depth
- Mulch: 2-3 inches around plants, 3-4 inches for weed control
- Decorative gravel: 2 inches
- Gravel path: 3-4 inches over landscape fabric
- Driveway: 4-6 inches on a compacted base layer
Bags or a truckload?
Bags are easy for small beds and do not need a delivery. For more than about two to three cubic yards, bulk delivery is usually far cheaper, and the supplier can tip it close to where you need it. Check whether the price is per cubic yard or per ton - gravel is often sold by weight.
Example
A 20 × 4 ft flower bed with 3 inches of mulch needs 20 cubic feet, or about 0.74 cubic yards - roughly ten 2-cubic-foot bags. Edging the bed keeps mulch in place and makes it last longer.
Related free tools
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cubic yard weigh?
Mulch about 400-800 lb; gravel about 2,600-3,000 lb.
Bags or bulk?
Bulk is usually cheaper above about 2-3 cubic yards.
Will it fit in my truck?
A half-ton pickup carries about 1 yard of gravel or 2-3 yards of mulch.
Should I lay fabric first?
Landscape fabric under gravel helps stop weeds.
How long does mulch last?
Organic mulch breaks down and usually needs topping up every year.
Can I mix units?
Enter length and width in feet and depth in inches; the calculator converts them for you.
Results are estimates for planning. Your inputs stay in your browser and are not sent to Soft2Cloud.
Last updated: November 2026