Application |
How Much Compost |
Application |
Water |
Expectations |
Flower Beds
|
For existing beds, add 1" - 2" of compost and work it into the soil using a rake, hoe, shovel or rototiller. Plant and water accordingly. |
For best results with new beds, rototill to at least root depth. |
Water until the entire root zone is saturated. |
Most annuals and perennials perform well in compost amended soils. |
Vegetable Gardens
|
Incorporate 1-2" of compost and encourage green leafy growth.
Excellent for transplants and seed starts - provides nutrients as soon as roots start growing into the area. |
Incorporate into the soil to a depth of 6 inches or more with a rototiller or by hand. MIX WELL. |
Water as directed per seed packets and nursery instructions. Initial deep soaking promotes good germination rates - but don't drown them! |
Applying compost on a yearly basis promotes a strong healthy plants and improved soil condition. Do not overapply compost to fruit bearing vegetables late in the season because high nitrogen levels encourage green growth, not fruit setting. |
Tree / Shrub Planting
|
Add about 30% compost by volume to the area and mix thoroughly outside the hole with the native soil. Place the tree into the hole and use the compost amended soil mixture as a backfill around the root ball. |
Rototill or dig up an area about 3 to 5 times the diameter of the root ball of the tree/shrub to be planted. |
Remove excess soil and water thoroughly. Be sure to support the trunk as necessary. |
Be sure do deep water the roots on a regular basis. Slow drip, or root watering spikes are recommended to keep the nutrients in the compost avaliable to the plant. |
Mulch
|
For mulch applications around annuals, perennials and other landscape plants, a 1½" - 2" layer of compost is optimum. Coarse-textured composts suppress weeds as well. |
Apply compost and rake to achieve an even application. |
Arrange mulch so water flows away from trunks, reducing chances for crown rot. |
My mother's favorite use of compost in town, she top dresses all beds with incredible results. Avoid over or under mulching because other problems can arise, such as smothering of root systems. |
New Lawns
|
Layer area before incorporaion to the following thicknesses
• In clay soils: 1" layer of compost • In sandy soils 1 ½" layer of compost
Be careful to prepare soil well if you are using seed - compost can burn if applied too thick without proper incorporation. |
Before planting:
mix compost at least 6"
preferably 8" or more deep.
Rototilling is best to areate and incorporate. |
For sod, water well - soaking initially, then as needed when established.
Follow directions from grower on seed - diffferent varieties have different requirements. |
With drought as prevelent as it has been during the last several growing seasons, br sure that you choose an appropriate variety for our arid conditions. Watering restrictions are probably a guarantee in Denver. Be sure to plant / establish is the cooler spring or fall weather. |
NOTE: Soil and countless other factors may affect your growing conditions. This information is intended as informational only. This site accepts no responsibility for your horticultrual success or lack of it. Talk to your local Extension agent for more information. |
