We’ve all heard of composting, but what exactly is it?
Do we need it?
When should we use it?
Composting can be confusing and no two batches of compost are the same, but the results are nothing short of amazing. What it can do for your flowers, vegetable gardens, and even your lawn can be better than the leading fertilizer brands. Not to mention, it’s better for the earth.
What is compost?
Compost is composed of decayed organic matter. This matter is made up of brown leaves, compostable materials like cardboard and newspaper, grass clippings, food scraps, twigs and more all broken down into a soil-like material. Compost is created through the process of thermal decay and then added as a dressing to your garden. Compost is home to millions of active microorganisms which help to continue breaking down organic matter into bioavailable nutrients. (Or in simple terms - food for plants!)
Do we need compost?
The biggest benefit of compost is of course that you are diverting green waste from landfill. Composting is brilliant for taking vegetable scraps and other kitchen waste out of your general waste bin and putting it to good use in the garden.
Compost is beneficial for increasing water retention in root systems and leads to vital growth of plants. Heavy soil better retains water, reducing erosion and runoff. Once it breaks down, compost matter is a thick, crumbly substance; and when applied to your soil, helps it to retain moisture.
Some research has indicated that using compost can prevent unwanted pests. Compost helps to control diseases by providing organic matter that can prevent the spread of disease by having natural checks against them. It is specifically beneficial against fungal infections that can destroy roots if unchecked.
When should we use compost?
Use compost to improve garden soil, topdress your lawn, as a component in potting mixes or for mulching gardens and houseplants. Keep in mind though, growing directly or only in compost is not usually recommended. It needs to be blended with soil so your gardens and lawns get the nutrients it needs.
With homemade, fully decomposed compost, the nutrients are more readily available to plants and can be added onto just-planted or soon-to-be-planted garden beds. There’s also bagged compost which is easy and available at local garden stores. Here at Martin’s Feed Mill, we carry Veteran Compost and with every purchase, you’re supporting a one-of-a-kind business helping to employ veterans, recycle waste, and rebuild the soil.
If you're using bagged compost such as Veteran Compost, add in layers about 1 to 2 inches thick in early spring. Early March or April is a great time. Dig in lightly with a bow rake, and leave the compost to rest a week or two before you plant seeds.
When using homemade compost or if compost is thick with green matter and fibrous, add to garden beds in autumn. The compost will be mostly decomposed by spring and beds should be ready for planting. With backyard compost, get into the practice of adding 2-3 inches of new/fresh compost in the autumn (in lieu of cover crop) so that the compost can decompose over winter and into early spring.
Compost is great to improve your lawn's health and vigor. Spread a half an inch of compost over the soil surface. Use a leaf rake to spread it across the lawn. Consider applying compost after aeration or dethatching the lawn to maximize the benefits anytime of the year.
Shop our last remaining batch of Veteran Compost before it's gone!
Veteran Compost is a veteran-owned business focused on composting organic material and employing veterans.
Everyday, they collect tons of food waste from local homes and businesses and compost that material on their farm in Aberdeen, MD. As a result, it then becomes natural soil amendments.
Stop by Martin's Feed Mill to purchase a bag of Veteran Compost today and support a one-of-a-kind business helping to employ veterans, recycle waste, and rebuild the soil.