Soil Calculators

Soil, mulch, compost and potting mix are all sold by volume. These calculators convert the size of your beds, lawns or containers into cubic yards, cubic metres and bags so you buy the right amount the first time.

Which soil calculator do I need?

  • Soil Calculator: topsoil or garden soil for new beds, leveling and lawns.
  • Mulch Calculator: bark, wood chips and other mulches, including coverage per yard.
  • Compost Calculator: amending beds or top-dressing lawns.
  • Potting Soil Calculator: pots, planters and window boxes, in quarts and litres.

Volume units at a glance

UnitEquals
1 cubic yard27 cubic feet · 0.765 m³ · 765 litres
1 cubic foot1,728 cubic inches · 25.7 dry quarts · 28.3 litres
1 cubic metre1,000 litres · 35.3 cubic feet · 1.31 cubic yards

All of these calculators accept both US and metric measurements, use the toggle at the top of each calculator.

FAQ

Common questions

How much area does a cubic yard cover?

324 sq ft at 1 inch deep. Divide 324 by your depth in inches: 108 sq ft at 3 in, 54 sq ft at 6 in.

Is it cheaper to buy soil in bulk?

Usually, once you need more than about one to two cubic yards, but compare delivery fees and minimum orders with bag prices locally.