What’s the Best Compost for Your Garden?

Relying on topsoil alone to sustain the health and integrity of your plants may not be the most efficient way to care for your garden. This guide will cover the basics about compost, including what it is, how it helps your soil, and what the best compost is for your garden.

What is compost?

Compost is the nutrient-rich byproduct that comes as a result of breaking down organic matter. Many households choose to establish their own composting space where kitchen scraps and other natural materials (such wood and paper waste) are piled together and broken down over time.

As more materials are added to the soil, the slow process of decay returns the rich vitamins and minerals back to the earth, allowing for the production of a hearty supplement perfect for the garden.  

Is compost better than soil?

The best way to understand compost is to think about it as a supplement over a replacement for your garden soil. While native plants would not be able to sustain life on compost alone, adding compost to topsoil creates a rich environment for flowers and produce to feed from. Plus, the addition of micronutrients in the compost helps soil retain water better, allowing plants to remain hydrated for longer. 

Are there different types of compost?

While the concept and product of composting remain the same, there are three different types of composting techniques that all achieve the same result. The first type is aerobic composting. This method involves breaking down material through the use of oxygen and microorganisms.

Next up is vermicomposting. This type of composting utilizes various species of worms that consume organic material and break it down. The byproduct is what’s used as compost. This “black gold” is one of the most nutrient-rich composting options.

Another type that's not as common is the anaerobic method of composting. This process works without the presence of oxygen and allows the organic material to ferment over a long period of time.  All three methods can be used as a way to bulk compost. However, anaerobic composting may result in a bad smell due to the fermentation process. 

Compost benefits

So, what exactly makes the compost product so beneficial for soil? Below we’ve outlined the most common reasons that composting can benefit your garden:

Compost is rich in vitamins and nutrients

Other than reducing the amount of waste your household produces, composting allows for the reintroduction of vital vitamins and nutrients. As seeds begin to sprout and grow, the soil is depleted of important nutrients to support your plants' growth. Reintroducing these nutrients with compost ensures the best growing conditions for your garden. 

Compost can help retain water better

In addition to the need for specific nutrients and minerals, lack of the appropriate amounts of water can make plant development difficult. Adding compost to your garden helps improve water retention, resulting in a happier, healthier garden. 

Compost helps fight against plant disease

Did you know that the microorganisms that help break down your organic material also aid in preventing plant diseases? The bacteria, organic acids, fungi, and other microorganisms work together to reduce the presence of hazardous pathogens, even when composting in a big bag. 

Compost improves the rooting depths of your garden

Composting improves the soil structure in your garden beds and can encourage your plants to root deeper in the ground. As roots grow deeper, plants have more nutrients and resources to tap into for optimum growth. 

How to select your compost

While taking a one-size-fits-all approach may not hurt your plants, compost can be tailored to specific garden and plant types. We’ve reviewed each process and outlined what to consider below:

What kind of produce are you growing?

First, understand what you’re growing and what nutrients the plant can benefit most from. Composting piles can be modified to appropriately support various types of crops and flowers. 

What can you grow in your location?

Climate, soil type, and other environmental factors can affect both your crops and your compost. Learn about your geographic location and gardening zone to better understand what type of soil and compost will work best.

Contact a professional for advice

In the event you’re feeling unsure, or not seeing progress with your compost, don’t hesitate to reach out for help! Professionals are always available for a consultation to ensure that your garden and your composting endeavors work as well as possible. 

For the best compost recommendations visit Whitwam Organics!

Need help with your compost? At Whitwam Organics, we’re the professionals with the skills and knowledge you need for a thriving garden. From bagged compost instructions and composting advice, our team has exactly what your garden needs.