Garden Basics

Composting is a fun, healthy and rewarding thing to do at home.  There’s a reason it’s called ‘Black Gold’.  Nothing goes to waste in my kitchen and garden. Compost enriches the soil and helps the planet by reducing the landfill. Can Oak Leaves Be Used In My Compost? Yes, oak leaves are fine to use in

At times I have been ready to use my compost in my garden, but it has not finished breaking down completely. Can this unfinished compost be used in the garden? Not all compost is created equal; it depends on how and what was composted. Most homemade compost is from organic matter, which comprises a mixture of

Adding compost to your garden soil acts as an organic soil conditioner and amends the soil structure by adding the required nutrients for optimal growth. Different types of soil require different amounts of added compost, but all soils will benefit.Soil TypeDescriptionAdd CompostClay SoilCompacts easily and needs compost to improve structure and drainage3-4 inches (7.5-10cm)Sandy SoilDries out

Homemade compost, even old compost, is mostly organic matter with microbes. Commercial compost will have a higher percentage of soil, but it will still have some organic matter.   Once the temperature of homemade compost starts lowering to air temperature, then curing can begin. Both homemade and store-bought compost can last for a year or more.  Table

Composting allows nature to take its course and takes some time – probably more time than you wanted.  Nature can take decades to create beautiful topsoil under trees with help from microbial activity. Earthworms, microorganisms, and fungi build up the topsoil layers year after year. This soil amendment slowly nourishes the trees and plants around it. You