Soil Calculator - Cubic Yards for Your Garden

Calculate the exact amount of soil needed for gardens, raised beds, landscaping, and fill projects. Get accurate cubic yard estimates with weight conversions.

Soil Volume Calculator

Recommended: 6-12 inches for gardens, 12-18 inches for raised beds

Soil Results

Enter your measurements to see results

Types of Soil & Applications

Topsoil

Rich, nutrient-dense soil perfect for gardens, lawns, and planting.

  • Weight: ~1.0 ton/cubic yard
  • Best for: Gardens, lawns, planting
  • Depth: 6-12 inches

Fill Dirt

Inexpensive soil for grading, leveling, and structural fill.

  • Weight: ~1.1 ton/cubic yard
  • Best for: Grading, foundations
  • Depth: As needed

Compost

Organic matter that improves soil structure and fertility.

  • Weight: ~0.8 ton/cubic yard
  • Best for: Soil amendment
  • Depth: 2-4 inches mixed in

Soil Calculator FAQ

How deep should topsoil be for a garden?

Most vegetables and flowers need 6-12 inches of good topsoil. Root vegetables like carrots need deeper soil (12+ inches).

What's the difference between topsoil and fill dirt?

Topsoil is nutrient-rich and supports plant growth. Fill dirt is subsoil used for grading and doesn't contain organic matter or nutrients.

How much does a cubic yard of soil weigh?

Topsoil weighs about 1 ton per cubic yard when dry, up to 1.3 tons when wet. Fill dirt is slightly heavier at 1.1-1.2 tons per cubic yard.

Should I mix new soil with existing soil?

Yes, mixing prevents layering issues and helps with water movement. Blend new soil with existing soil in the top 6-8 inches.