Calculate cubic yards and tons of topsoil needed for gardens, lawns, raised beds, and landscaping projects.
Enter your project area and desired depth to calculate topsoil requirements in cubic yards and tons.
Measure the length and width of the area to be covered with topsoil. For circular areas (like around trees), measure the diameter.
Decide how deep you want the topsoil layer. Recommended depths:
Choose the type of topsoil you plan to use. Different types have different weights per cubic yard, affecting tonnage calculations.
If adding topsoil over existing soil, include the current depth to avoid over-purchasing.
Include 15-25% for compaction (soil settles significantly over time, especially when watered).
Click "Calculate Topsoil Needs" to get results in cubic yards and/or tons.
Let's calculate the topsoil needed for a 30×20 foot garden with 8 inches of premium garden blend topsoil:
You would need approximately 13.33 cubic yards or about 14.66 tons of premium garden blend topsoil for a 30×20 garden with 8-inch total depth (6 inches new over 2 inches existing).
Pro Tip: Topsoil is typically sold by the cubic yard for bulk delivery. One cubic yard covers approximately:
It depends on moisture content and composition:
For new lawns:
Topsoil: The upper layer of natural soil, may contain weeds, rocks, and variable composition. Usually screened to remove debris.
Garden soil: A manufactured blend containing topsoil plus compost, peat moss, and other amendments for optimal plant growth.
Use: Topsoil for filling/leveling; garden soil for planting beds where plants will grow.
It depends:
Topsoil settles significantly, especially when watered: