Turn raked leaves into precise mulch estimates. Choose bed shape, depth, and compaction in seconds. Plan hauling, bag counts, and coverage with confidence now.
| Scenario | Shape | Size | Depth | Compaction | Estimated volume (yd³) | Bags (2.0 ft³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raised bed | Rectangle | 12 ft × 6 ft | 3 in | 10% | 0.73 | 9.9 |
| Tree ring | Circle | 6 ft diameter | 2 in | 15% | 0.22 | 3.0 |
| Small area | Custom area | 25 ft² | 4 in | 5% | 0.13 | 1.8 |
Example values are rounded for quick comparison.
Leaf mulch settles as air gaps collapse, so the multiplier helps.
If leaves are shredded, compaction may be lower than whole leaves.
Leaf mulch works best when it is applied evenly, at a consistent depth, and in the right season. Estimating volume prevents thin spots that expose soil and avoids excess piles that can mat and block air. A simple volume plan also helps schedule raking, shredding, and transport, especially when beds are spread across multiple zones.
Fresh leaves trap a lot of air. After watering and foot traffic, they compress and the mulch layer becomes thinner. The compaction allowance in this calculator adds extra material so the finished depth stays close to your target. Shredded leaves typically settle less than whole leaves, while wet leaves usually pack tighter than dry ones. If you shred leaves, expect higher coverage per bag, but still confirm with a small patch; leaf size, moisture, and species can change fluffiness and settling dramatically today.
Use the rectangle option for straight beds and walkways, and the circle option for tree rings or planting islands. For irregular spaces, measure the overall area and use the custom area mode. Consistent units matter: enter lengths in feet or meters as selected, then enter depth in inches or centimeters to match your field measurements.
The calculator converts your result into cubic feet, cubic yards, cubic meters, and liters for easy purchasing decisions. Bag estimates support small garden projects, while cubic yards are common for bulk quotes. Wheelbarrow loads translate volume into realistic trips, helping you plan labor, staging areas, and how many sessions are needed.
A typical leaf mulch layer is two to four inches on beds, kept back from plant crowns to reduce moisture issues. Thicker layers can suppress weeds, but may slow warming in spring. Use the cost mode for quick budgeting, then revisit inputs after a test spread to refine compaction for your local leaf mix.
Most gardens use 2–4 inches on beds. Keep mulch a few inches away from stems and crowns. For paths, use a thinner layer and top up as it settles after rain.
Start with 10% for whole, dry leaves. Use 5–8% for shredded leaves and 15–25% for very fluffy or mixed leaves. After one trial spread, adjust the percentage to match your site.
Yes. Measure the area with a tape, grid method, or plan drawing, then enter it as custom area. If you have multiple zones, calculate each zone separately and add the volumes.
Bulk mulch and compost suppliers commonly quote cubic yards or cubic meters. These units help you compare delivery options, estimate how many loads you need, and avoid unit conversion mistakes.
They are planning estimates. Bag fill, moisture, and packing vary. Wheelbarrow loads depend on heaping and terrain. Use the results to size the job, then round up slightly for convenience.
Yes. Choose a cost method and enter a price per cubic yard or per bag. The calculator multiplies price by your estimated volume so you can compare bagged versus bulk options quickly.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.