How it works
Multiply the net area by the desired layer depth to get base volume. Yard Kit then adds your extra-material percentage and divides by the volume printed on each bag, rounding up to whole bags. Bulk cost uses the buffered volume without bag rounding. Measure existing mulch and enter only the additional depth you need.
Example
A 5 × 3 m bed at 7.5 cm depth needs 1.125 m³. Adding 10% gives 1.2375 m³, or 25 bags of 50 L. At 5 per bag, material costs 125 in the selected currency, before delivery, labor and tax. These are arithmetic examples, not recommended depths or current prices.
Assumptions and limitations
Prices, density, depth and seed rate are examples. Replace them with your measurements and supplier quote.
Iowa State University Extension
Frequently asked questions
Are my measurements uploaded?
No. The calculators run in your browser and save numeric settings locally. Plans are not synchronized across devices. Clearing site data removes the saved plan.
Why are bag and bulk quantities different?
Both start with the same volume including your allowance. Bags round up to complete packages, which can leave surplus. Bulk cost uses the unrounded volume; suppliers may impose separate minimum orders or delivery increments.
Does switching units change my project?
No. Physical values are stored in meters, cubic meters and kilograms. Switching to feet, inches and pounds converts the displayed values and price unit. Switching currency does not convert prices.