How much topsoil do I need?
Multiply area (length × width) by depth in feet, divide by 27. A 10×20 bed at 4" depth needs about 2.5 cubic yards.
Topsoil Calculator
Topsoil orders use the same cubic-yard math as mulch — area × depth ÷ 27. Default 4 inches suits new garden beds; use 1–2 inches for lawn leveling and patch repair.
Garden beds
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Project settings
Use the project-specific starting depth, then verify locally
Default 10% for settling
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Default 2 cu ft
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Uses the bag size above
Garden beds vs lawn topdress
New vegetable and flower beds often need 4–6 inches of quality topsoil worked into native soil. Lawn repairs may only need 1–2 inches raked over bare patches.
Read our topsoil calculator guide for screened vs unscreened soil and when to add compost.
Delivery tips
A pickup truck holds roughly 1.5–2 cubic yards level full. Have the dump spot accessible — wet topsoil is heavy and will rut soft lawns.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
How deep should topsoil be for a new garden?
New vegetable and flower beds often use 4–6 inches of quality topsoil mixed into native soil. Lawn repairs may only need 1–2 inches.
Topsoil vs compost vs mulch?
Topsoil is for growing plants. Compost improves soil biology. Mulch covers soil surface. Use this calculator for topsoil volume — switch material type in settings.
Related calculators
Mulch Calculators · https://mulch-calculators.com/topsoil-calculator/