Mulch Weight Calculator – Estimate Mulch for Your Garden

Last updated: 23 Aug 2025 | Author: Brij | Review By: Irshad

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Easily calculate the amount of mulch you need with our Mulch Weight Calculator. Find mulch volume, weight, and coverage area based on garden size, depth, and mulch type.

Length:

Width:

Depth/Thickness:

inches

Mulch Type:

Mulch Calculation Results

Estimated Weight:

Area:

sq ft

Volume:

When planning landscaping or gardening, it’s important to know how much mulch you need and its total weight. Our Mulch Weight Calculator helps you estimate the volume and weight of mulch required based on the area, depth, and mulch type.

Step 1: Calculate the Area

The first step is to find the surface area of the garden or landscape.

Formula:

$\text{Area (sq. ft)} = \text{Length (ft)} \times \text{Width (ft)}$

Step 2: Calculate the Volume of Mulch

Since mulch depth is usually measured in inches, we convert it into feet before calculating the volume.

Formula:

$\text{Volume (cubic feet)} = \text{Area (sq. ft)} \times \frac{\text{Depth (inches)}}{12}$

If you need mulch in cubic yards, divide the cubic feet by 27 (since 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet).

Formula:

$\text{Volume (cubic yards)} = \frac{\text{Volume (cubic feet)}}{27}$

Step 3: Calculate the Weight of Mulch

Mulch weight depends on the type of mulch. On average:

Wood Mulch: ~20–25 lbs per cubic foot
Bark Mulch: ~15–20 lbs per cubic foot
Rubber Mulch: ~30–35 lbs per cubic foot
Straw Mulch: ~6–8 lbs per cubic foot

Formula:

$\text{Weight (lbs)} = \text{Volume (cubic feet)} \times \text{Weight per cubic foot (lbs)}$

Example Calculation

Let’s say you want to cover a garden bed that is 20 ft long and 10 ft wide with 3 inches of wood mulch.

Area:

$\text{Area} = 20 \times 10 = 200 \, \text{sq. ft}$

Volume (cubic feet):

$\text{Volume (cubic feet)} = 200 \times \frac{3}{12} = 50 \, \text{cubic feet}$

Volume (cubic yards):

$\text{Volume (cubic yards)} = \frac{50}{27} \approx 1.85 \, \text{cubic yards}$

Weight (assuming 22 lbs per cubic foot for wood mulch):

$\text{Weight} = 50 \times 22 = 1100 \, \text{lbs}$

FAQs

1. How much does a cubic yard of mulch weigh?

The weight of a cubic yard of mulch depends on the type of mulch. On average:

Wood mulch: 400–600 lbs per cubic yard
Bark mulch: 300–500 lbs per cubic yard
Rubber mulch: 800–1,000 lbs per cubic yard
Straw mulch: 100–200 lbs per cubic yard

2. Why does mulch weight vary?

Mulch weight varies because of moisture content, mulch type, and density. Wet mulch can weigh almost twice as much as dry mulch. For example, freshly delivered wood mulch often feels much heavier due to water absorption.

3. How do I calculate the weight of mulch for my garden?

To calculate mulch weight:

Measure the area (Length × Width).
Multiply by the depth (converted to feet) to get volume in cubic feet.
Multiply volume by the average weight per cubic foot of the mulch type.

4. How many pounds does 1 cubic foot of mulch weigh?

Wood mulch: 20–25 lbs
Bark mulch: 15–20 lbs
Rubber mulch: 30–35 lbs
Straw mulch: 6–8 lbs

5. How much mulch do I need for my garden?

Generally, a 2–3 inch layer of mulch is ideal for flower beds, while 3–4 inches is better for trees and shrubs. Use a mulch calculator to find the volume and weight required for your specific garden size.

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