Benefits in landscaping applications
Reduces the need for inorganic additives
Compost contains most of the plant nutrients found in organic additives. It can mean that adding additional phosphate or potassium is unnecessary, or when it is needed, that it is required at a far reduced rate.
Helps plants survive better
Landscaping often takes place where soil quality is poor, yet modern plants need a high level of organic matter to establish quickly. This can’t be provided by fertiliser alone. Compost contains high levels of organic matter, boosting the physical conditions of the soil. It makes it less bulky, so that roots can penetrate it more easily, allows better airflow and absorbs heat from the sun which improves conditions for germination and growth.
Helps soil retain moisture
Rain water is held for longer in soils with a high organic content. This means you have to water it less and plants are less likely to be thirsty when it hasn't rained for a while.
Helps prevent erosion and weeds
On light soils in particular, compost provides excellent protection from the wind and rain. It also starves weeds of the light they need to flourish.
Contains valuable micro-organisms
Micro-organisms do three good things to soil. Feeding off the organic matter in compost, and teaming up with the micro-organisms already present, they release polysaccarids and humic sustances that help improve soil structure. They release nutrients in organic matter and make it available to crops to use as food. They can suppress soil borne plant pathogens.
Cost benefits
Although compost purchase and application is a cost to a landscape project, cost savings some thorugh reduced need for fertilisers, reduced watering costs and less money spent on plant replacement.
Uses of compost in landscaping applications
Landscaping applications - overview
