Compost is playing an increasingly important role in landscaping projects and has a range of uses.
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Planting Bed Establishment - New planting schemes are invariably sited in less than ideal situations where soil is lacking in nutrients and organic matter. Compost enriches such soil, providing a suitable substrate for healthy plant growth.
- Tree & Shrub Planting - Unless the soil is particularly poor, the use of compost in backfill mixes can eliminate the need for additional nutrients.
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Soil Improver/Conditioner - Over time, compost improves soil quality and can eventually reduce the need for inorganic fertilization.
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Containers - Soils modified for use in containers should contain at least 5% organic matter. Unlike other sources of organic matter, compost is rich in micronutrients and beneficial micro-organisms. It is also relatively pH stable. Whether additional fertiliser is required can be determined by a soil analysis prior to planting.
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Seeding & Turfing - Before seeding, a soil analysis test is recommended to determine the compost application rate. If the soil is poor and the compost is low in nitrogen, the seed bed may need fertilising inorganically. Regular watering will ensure good root development.
- Turf Establishment & Top Dressing - Good quality compost, well decomposed and carefully screened, can yield excellent results when used to establish or renovate turf – for example, on residential or commercial lawns, sports grounds, athletics fields and golf courses.
Mulching - Coarser grade compost with larger woody fragments is ideal for mulching because it decomposes more slowly and stays in place for longer than finer grades.
