How to Calculate the Volume of Bark Needed

A common weed-prevention method is the use of bark or mulch in flower beds and gardens. The determination of the amount or volume of bark is not difficult but needs to be accurate in order to ensure you purchase enough. Bags of bark typically come in 3 or 5-cubic-foot quantities. At least 4-6 inches of bark depth is recommended for adequate weed control.

Measuring tape
Pen
Paper
Calculator

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length of the flower bed using the measuring tape and record the value on a piece of paper.
- 2
  Measure the width of the flower bed using the measuring tape and record the value on a piece of paper.
- 3
  Determine the total cubic footage of the flower bed by assuming a depth of 4 inches of bark. This is done by dividing 4 inches by 12 inches to convert the unit into feet. The depth is 0.33 feet. If the length of the flower bed measures 10 feet and the width measures 8 feet, then the volume of bark needed is 10 x 8 x 0.33 or 26.4 cubic feet.
- 4
  Determine the number of bark bags needed by dividing the flower bed volume by a 5-cubic-foot bag of bark. This is 26.4 divided by 5 or 5.28 bags. Round this value up and purchase six bags of bark.

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