Uses for compost
September 1st, 2008
While it is not a substitute for fertilizer, compost contains nutrients and holds them in the soil until plants can use them. It also loosens and aerates clay soils, and retains water in sandy soils. Here are some common ways to use finished compost:
Soil amendment: Mix 2 to 5 inches of compost into vegetable and flower gardens each year before planting.
Potting mixture: Add one part compost to two parts commercial potting soil, or make your own mixture by using equal parts of compost and sand or perlite.
Mulch: Spread an inch or two of compost around annual flowers and vegetables, and up to 6 inches around trees and shrubs.
Top dressing for lawn: Mix finely sifted compost with sand and sprinkle evenly over lawns.
Click here to check out Metro’s guide to effective composting.