Field Horticulture Applications
The total nitrogen in compost should be applied according to the needs of the next crop in conjunction with inorganic nitrogen fertiliser.
The needs of the soil for the full crop rotation should be considered when assessing the other major nutrients. Regulations regarding Nitrate Vulnerable Zones must be followed and the Soil and Water Codes observed in other areas.
Compost works differently to manures, it can have added benefits:
- Spring application is possible due to the slow-release nutrients in composts, not adversely affecting crop establishment and quality.
- Autumn application results in less nutrient leaching than from manures and slurries due to the slow-release forms of many of the nutrients in composts.
It's important to time your compost application so that increased nutrient availability helps meet the nutrient requirements of your crop rotation programme.
Compost is most effectively used when it is well mixed with the soil so avoid burying it by only ploughing. And, don't sow salt sensitive seed crops less than two weeks after compost application and incorporation.
Mulching fruit crop rows
Established fruit crops can benefit from the nutrient value of compost plus weed suppression effects by applying compost in the row as a mulch 25 to 75 mm deep. Planting fruit trees/bushes with compost combats Replant Disease.
