Mulch guide

Mulch Bags to Cubic Yards

Mulch is often sold in bags, while bulk mulch is usually sold by the cubic yard. To compare bagged mulch and bulk mulch, convert the bag size into cubic yards.

Quick answer:

One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet. Divide 27 by the bag size in cubic feet to find how many bags make one cubic yard.

Use the Mulch Calculator →

Mulch Bag Conversion Formula

Bags per cubic yard = 27 ÷ Bag size in cubic feet

Mulch Bags Per Cubic Yard

Bag Size Bags Per Cubic Yard
1 cu ft bag 27 bags
1.5 cu ft bag 18 bags
2 cu ft bag 14 bags
3 cu ft bag 9 bags

Example

If you need 3 cubic yards of mulch and are buying 2 cubic foot bags, one cubic yard is about 14 bags. For 3 cubic yards, you would need about 41 bags before adding any extra.

Bagged Mulch vs Bulk Mulch

Bagged mulch is easier to move and store, but bulk mulch can be more convenient for larger landscaping jobs. For small beds, bags may be simpler. For large beds, bulk delivery may be faster and easier.