How much mulch for 200 square feet?
Quick Answer
For 200 square feet at the recommended 3-inch depth, you need 1.85 cubic yards of mulch — about 50 cubic feet. That's 25 bags of 2-cubic-foot mulch, or 17 bags of 3-cubic-foot bags. At this volume, bulk mulch delivery is more economical than bags.
Quick Reference Table
| Depth | Mulch needed for 200 sq ft |
|---|---|
| 2 inches | 1.23 yd³ / 17 bags (2 cu ft) |
| 3 inches | 1.85 yd³ / 25 bags |
| 4 inches | 2.47 yd³ / 33 bags |
| Bulk (3") | 1.85 yd³ ≈ $50–90 delivered |
| Bagged (3") | 25 bags ≈ $100–150 |
How to Calculate It Yourself
- 1
Measure your area: 200 sq ft (e.g., a 10×20 ft bed or two 10×10 areas).
- 2
Choose depth: 2" for topdressing, 3" for standard, 4" for weed suppression.
- 3
Calculate: 200 × 3 ÷ 12 = 50 cubic feet. ÷ 27 = 1.85 cubic yards.
- 4
Convert to bags: 50 ÷ 2 = 25 bags of 2-cu-ft mulch. Round up.
Pro Tip
At 200 sq ft you're right at the break-even between bulk and bagged. If you have a pickup truck, a bulk yard of mulch ($30–50) is far cheaper than 25 bags ($100–150). One cubic yard fits in a standard pickup bed.
Need an exact number for your specific dimensions?
Use the Mulch Calculator →