Soil Calculator
Calculate how much soil, topsoil, or compost you need for your garden, raised beds, and landscaping projects
Calculate Soil Requirements
Rectangular Area Dimensions
Soil Specifications
Typical: 6-12 inches for gardens
General purpose garden soil
Cost Parameters (Optional)
Typical: $20-$60 per yard
Alternative pricing method
Transportation fees
Calculation Formulas
Example Calculation
Raised Garden Bed Project
Dimensions: 14 ft × 4 ft = 56 sq ft
Depth: 6 inches (0.5 ft)
Soil type: Topsoil (1,200 kg/m³)
Price: $40 per cubic yard
Calculation
Volume = 56 sq ft × 0.5 ft = 28 cubic feet
Volume = 28 ÷ 27 = 1.04 cubic yards
Weight = 0.79 m³ × 1,200 kg/m³ = 950 kg (0.95 tons)
Cost = 1.04 × $40 = $41.60
Soil Types Guide
Depth Guidelines
Soil Tips
Order 10% extra for settling and future needs
Mix compost with topsoil for better nutrition
Test soil pH before planting
Consider delivery logistics for large orders
Schedule delivery when ready to spread
Understanding Soil Types and Requirements
What is Soil?
Soil is a complex mixture of organic matter, minerals, gases, liquids, and living organisms. It forms through weathering of parent materials over long periods of time.
Soil Components:
- • Minerals (45%): Sand, silt, clay particles
- • Organic matter (5%): Decomposed plant/animal material
- • Water (25%): Dissolved nutrients for plants
- • Air (25%): Oxygen for root respiration
Choosing the Right Soil
For Vegetables
Rich loam or topsoil mixed with compost, 6-12" deep
For Lawns
Quality topsoil, 4-6" deep for new lawns
For Containers
Lightweight potting mix with good drainage
Soil Conservation Tips
pH Balance
Most plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). Test and adjust with lime or sulfur as needed.
Organic Matter
Add compost annually to improve soil structure, water retention, and nutrient content.
Erosion Control
Use mulch, cover crops, or terracing to prevent soil loss from wind and water erosion.