WHAT IS COMPOST?

Compost is an organic matter resource that has the unique ability to improve the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of soils. Compost has many horticultural benefits and uses.

  • Compost adds a slow release of nutrients
  • Compost adds beneficial soil organisms, reducing the need to use chemical pesticides
  • Compost aids in suppressing plant disease pathogens, reducing the need to use chemical fertilizers
  • Compost increases moisture retention, so you don’t need to add water to garden beds as frequently
  • Compost helps improve soil structure, porosity, and density
  • Compost makes any soil easier to work and cultivate

HOW TO USE COMPOST

Garden/Vegetable/Flower Beds: Dig or till garden bed to a depth of 6-8” and incorporate compost thoroughly into soil before planting. Or apply 1-2” of compost on top of the existing garden bed, rake smooth, or till it into the soil early Spring. Once plants are established, add 1-2” layer of compost around the base of each plant or over the entire garden bed as a course mulch to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and for aesthetic purposes.

Mulching/Top Dressing: Remove any weeds or grass that may grow through the mulch. Incorporate 1-3” of compost over the entire area, or place around the base of each plant extending as far as its outermost leaves.

Tree/Shrub Plantings: Dig or till the soil to a minimum depth of 8-10” of the planting area, then incorporate compost (1 part) with the existing soil (2-3 parts). Apply compost as a topdressing to prevent weeds by spreading 2” around the base of the plant extending as far as its outermost leaves. Do not place mulch or compost directly against the bark of the base of the tree/shrub. Add more compost once a year.

Lawn Establishment: For new turf establishment, till to a depth of 6-8” and add up to 2” of compost to an existing soil base. Rake soil surface smooth. Top dress existing turfs with ¼-1/2” of finely textured compost.

Potting Mixes: Add compost with other soil amendments for container/potted plants. Compost should make up no more than 1/3 of the volume of a potting mix.

Fall is the best time to add compost for a slow release of nutrients.

UCRRA is your local STA Certified Compost supplier!