Soil Calculator

Overview

Estimates fill volume for a rectangular bed and lists bulk soil, bagged soil, compost top-up, and raised-bed accessories.

Assumptions

• Depth means finished soil depth across the full footprint.
• The compost line is 25% of computed bulk volume.

Worked example

An 8 × 4 ft bed filled 12 in deep needs 32 cu ft = 1.19 cu yd; the displayed bulk order rounds to 1.2 yd.

Common mistakes

• Forgetting that a raised-bed frame displaces some soil.
• Treating compost as a substitute for correcting drainage or soil-test results.

Limitations

It does not model settling, existing soil, or a sloped bed.

Safety and local requirements

Use gloves when handling soil products. Check local rules before importing soil or placing beds over utility easements.

Sources

• University of Minnesota Extension — planting and growing guides