build a composting binIf you want a healthy lush garden, you need to implement a natural composting program.  Putting chemicals into the soil will only harm your garden in the long-run.

Many people have difficulties with growing healthy plants or trees.  They following correct instructions in watering and planting, but just can’t seem to get things to improve.  We may have some suggestions that can help.

First of all, if you are frustrated with your landscape because you seem to be in a never-ending battle of weeds, insects or sicknesses, the problem may not be what you think.   When battling difficulties with plants, many gardeners have been “programmed” to run to the local farm store and purchase chemicals to flood their plants. They purchase weed and pest killers to spray on their plants, not considering the potential harm this will ultimately cause their garden and their health.

Many times, the plant problem is not due to insects or illnesses, but rather, the poor soil the plants are growing in. With the poor soil comes feeble and unhealthy plants that are likely to get insect or illness issues. Adding additional chemical based fertilizers, weed killers, and insect sprays, will only complicate the problem for years to come.

Our approach is to first look at natural solutions to resolving the problems. If we determine our soil is the difficulty, we suggest a treatment of adding a healthy compost mix.

Anytime is a wonderful time to add compost.

Compost is made from rich organic material, which is vital to growing healthy and successful plants. It is the result of a natural activity of rot and recycling of materials such as leaves and twigs. All over the planet, in each meadow, forest and wetland, composting is happening to improve plant growth and production.

Composting is nature-generated process and function, but can be a direct result of human intervention for the purposes of increased yield and soil improvements.

Some of the benefits of composting include:

  • The major advantage of composting is that it ties water and nutrient elements in reserve, freeing them when plants need it the most.
  • Utilizing compost is a cheap way to improve the soil.
  • Compost cuts the necessity to fertilize since it’s loaded in plant nutrient elements and slowly discharges them over a period of time, and by not being forced to replace plants each year and the expenses connected with plants that die due to poor soils.
  • Plant crops tests indicate that Humic Acid, even in low concentrations, produces healthy, lush plants.

There are a few paths to make good compost. Regardless of whether you purchase a compost can or build one from wood pallets or concrete blocks, here are some pointers that should help you get going:

  1. A compost pile should be roughly three feet tall and three feet wide.
  2. All items going into the compost pile should be wet. When the yard waste is dry when added, it’ll cut back the decomposition process.
  3. Layers of the yard waste should be applied using different components of the yard waste. To give a well-balanced blend and create a strong compost, you will want to add diverse elements to your compost. For example, you will want to add a layer of grass clippings, then a layer of leaves, etc.
  4. Keep your compost turned. To turn a compost pile isn’t necessarily a comprehensive task, unless you are in a major rush. By turning the compost pile it will accelerate the decomposition process.
  5. The finalized product compost can be applied to a new or an established garden or landscape. If you’re still planning your project, be certain to add lots of compost onto your soil before you plant.
  6. Compost, over the course of time, will integrate itself with your current soil. The stronger your composting program, the healthier your soil. There is usually no necessity to replace soil or add chemicals. Natural composting will improve your soil and add nutrients that are vital to plant growth.
  7. It does not make any difference if your soil is sandy, clay, or rock, adding compost will improve it. To top-dress a longtime landscape, you are able to add a layer of compost directly to the top of the existing soil.
  8. If you have established plants, add one – two inches of compost all round the plant. The plants will still get the advantages of the humic acid and other vital plant nutriments extravagantly found in compost. The plants and landscape will reward you with a lush, healthy expansion. In addition, it will help give your plants a stronger natural resistance to insects and diseases.

 

Popular Questions

How does adding compost to soil help develop healthy, lush plants?

Compost improves soil structure, allowing roots to access air, water, and nutrients more easily. It adds organic matter that supports beneficial soil organisms and helps plants grow stronger. Mix finished compost into the top few inches of soil before planting or spread it around established plants as a mulch.

What is the best way to add compost to soil for lush plant growth?

For garden beds, spread a layer of finished compost over the soil and mix it in gently without disturbing deep roots. A layer about 1 to 3 inches thick is generally useful, depending on the condition of the soil. Around established plants, apply compost on the surface while keeping it a few inches away from stems.

Can adding compost to soil improve plant health in poor garden soil?

Yes, adding compost to soil can improve drainage in heavy clay and increase moisture retention in sandy soil. Its organic matter also helps make nutrients available gradually, reducing stress from depleted soil. Apply compost regularly and observe plant growth, drainage, and moisture levels to adjust future applications.

How often should compost be added to soil to develop healthy, lush plants?

Most garden beds benefit from a fresh layer of finished compost once or twice a year. Add it before the growing season or after harvest, then work it lightly into the surface if the soil is bare. Avoid using unfinished compost, which may contain weed seeds or temporarily compete with plants for nitrogen.