Mulch & Gravel Calculator
Estimate how much mulch, gravel, rock, or soil you need for landscaping. Get results in cubic yards, bags, and tons with material cost estimates. Works for rectangular, circular, and irregular beds.
Quick rule: 1 cubic yard of mulch covers 162 sq ft at 2" deep, 108 sq ft at 3" deep, or 81 sq ft at 4" deep. Most landscapers recommend 2-3 inches for flower beds and 3-4 inches for pathways. Always add 5-10% for settling and irregular edges.
Project Dimensions
Material Estimate
Material Coverage Table
How many square feet 1 cubic yard covers at different depths:
| Depth | Coverage per Cubic Yard | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | 324 sq ft | Top-dressing existing mulch |
| 2 inches | 162 sq ft | Flower beds, annual refresh |
| 3 inches | 108 sq ft | Recommended for most landscaping |
| 4 inches | 81 sq ft | Pathways, weed suppression |
| 6 inches | 54 sq ft | Playground areas (CPSC safety) |
| 9 inches | 36 sq ft | Playground fall zones (>7 ft equipment) |
Material Weight and Cost Comparison
| Material | Weight per yd³ | Bulk Cost per yd³ | Bag Cost (2 cu ft) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood Bark Mulch | 400–600 lbs | $30 – $45 | $3 – $5 | 1–2 years |
| Cedar Mulch | 400–500 lbs | $35 – $55 | $4 – $6 | 2–3 years |
| Dyed Mulch (black/red) | 400–600 lbs | $30 – $50 | $3 – $5 | 1–2 years |
| Pine Straw | 300–400 lbs | $25 – $35 | $4 – $6/bale | 6–12 months |
| Rubber Mulch | 1,200–1,500 lbs | $80 – $160 | $7 – $10 | 10+ years |
| Pea Gravel | 2,400–2,600 lbs | $35 – $55 | $4 – $6 | Permanent |
| Crushed Stone (#57) | 2,500–2,800 lbs | $35 – $75 | $5 – $8 | Permanent |
| River Rock (1-3") | 2,600–2,900 lbs | $50 – $150 | $6 – $12 | Permanent |
| Decomposed Granite | 2,700–3,000 lbs | $40 – $65 | $5 – $7 | Permanent |
| Topsoil | 1,800–2,200 lbs | $25 – $50 | $3 – $5 | N/A — soil amendment |
| Sand | 2,600–2,900 lbs | $25 – $40 | $4 – $6 | Permanent |
Bulk delivery typically costs $50-150 per load on top of material cost. Most landscape supply companies have a 2-3 yard minimum for delivery. Sources: HomeAdvisor 2025, Angi verified pricing. Prices vary significantly by region.
Mulch vs Gravel: Which Should You Choose?
Mulch (organic) breaks down over 1-3 years, adding nutrients to soil as it decomposes. It insulates roots, retains moisture (reducing watering by 25-50% per the USDA), and suppresses weeds. It needs annual replenishment. Best for: flower beds, tree rings, vegetable gardens, and any planting area where soil health matters.
Gravel and rock (inorganic) is permanent — a one-time installation that doesn't decompose, attract insects, or need replacement. It provides excellent drainage and fire resistance. However, it doesn't improve soil, absorbs and radiates heat (which can stress plants), and is harder to modify later. Best for: pathways, driveways, drainage areas, xeriscaping, and Mediterranean-style landscaping.
A 2020 study by the University of Florida IFAS Extension found that 3 inches of mulch reduced summer soil temperatures by 10-15°F compared to bare soil, and reduced irrigation needs by 30-50%. For water-conscious homeowners, mulch pays for itself in reduced water bills within one season in hot climates.
When to Apply Mulch
The ideal mulching window is mid to late spring (after soil has warmed to 60°F) for most of the US. Mulching too early in spring traps cold soil, delaying plant growth. Fall mulching (October-November) protects roots through winter. The National Gardening Association recommends never piling mulch against tree trunks or plant stems — the "mulch volcano" practice causes root rot, fungal disease, and pest habitat.
For calculating the area of irregular beds, use our Area Calculator or Square Footage Calculator. For other home improvement estimates, see the Concrete Calculator and Paint Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
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