How to calculate landscape material
Multiply length by width by depth (converted to feet) to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. Bulk suppliers sell mulch and soil by the yard and stone by the yard or ton.
Cubic feet = Length × Width × (Depth in ÷ 12)
Cubic yards = Cubic feet ÷ 27
Tons = Cubic yards × Density
Example: 20 × 10 ft bed, 3 in of mulch
20 × 10 × 0.25 = 50 cu ft = 1.85 cubic yards, or 25 bags of 2 cu ft.
Recommended depths
| Material | Depth |
|---|---|
| Mulch in beds | 2–3 in |
| Gravel walkway | 2–3 in over 4 in base |
| Gravel driveway | 4–6 in (in layers) |
| Topsoil for new lawn | 4–6 in |
| Paver sand base | 1 in |
Frequently asked questions
How many bags of mulch are in a yard?
About 13.5 bags of 2 cu ft, or 9 bags of 3 cu ft.
How much does a yard of gravel weigh?
About 1.4 tons (2,800 lb) dry. Wet or larger stone can weigh more.
How much area does a yard of mulch cover?
About 108 sq ft at 3 in deep, or 162 sq ft at 2 in.