No-Dig Bed Calculator
Calculate compost quantities for no-dig beds — new beds, top-dressing, and raised bed fills
Bed details
Bed stage
Bed Area
3.60
m²
Compost Depth
15
cm
Total Compost
0.54
m³
540 litres
Bag quantities
22
25 L bags
standard bag
14
40 L bags
large bag
9
60 L bags
bulk bag
Cardboard layer
20
sheets approx.
Lay overlapping cardboard (no glossy/tape) directly on grass or weeds before adding compost. Overlaps of at least 15cm prevent weed breakthrough.
Estimate based on standard double-wall boxes (~600×400mm) with 15cm overlaps, allowing 30% extra for overlap coverage.
No-dig gardening builds soil health by feeding soil organisms rather than disturbing them. Pioneered in the UK by Charles Dowding, this method consistently produces high yields with less effort year on year.
Notes: Compost volumes are approximate. Quality varies — use well-rotted garden compost, green waste compost, or specialist no-dig mixes. Avoid fresh manure directly on planting areas.