1. What is This Calculator For?

This calculator helps determine the volume of soil needed for a pot, converting gallons to cubic feet. It's particularly useful for standard 5-gallon pots commonly used in gardening.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

Where:

• \( Gallons \) — The size of your pot in gallons
• \( 0.133681 \) — Conversion factor from gallons to cubic feet

Explanation: The equation converts liquid volume (gallons) to soil volume (cubic feet) for accurate potting measurements.

3. Importance of Soil Volume Calculation

Details: Proper soil volume is crucial for plant health, ensuring adequate root space and proper water retention.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the pot size in gallons (default is 5 gallons). The calculator will show the equivalent volume in cubic feet.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why convert gallons to cubic feet for soil?
A: Soil is typically sold by cubic feet, while pots are measured in gallons. This conversion helps you buy the right amount.

Q2: Is this accurate for all pot shapes?
A: The calculation assumes the pot is approximately cylindrical. Odd shapes may require adjustments.

Q3: Should I account for soil settling?
A: It's recommended to add 10-15% extra volume to account for soil compaction over time.

Q4: What about drainage materials?
A: If using rocks or other drainage materials at the bottom, subtract their volume from your total soil calculation.

Q5: Can I use this for other liquids?
A: While the conversion works for any liquid, this calculator is specifically designed for soil volume calculations.