How to Use Compost as Soil for Home Gardening
Since I started composting, my household waste has steadily decreased, and I’m living more comfortably. When my compost was ready and I thought about how to use it, I decided to start a home garden.
As a beginner in home gardening, you might not know how to properly use compost, so in this article, I’ll introduce the best ways to use compost effectively.
How to Use Compost as “Soil”
Compost = Finished Fertilizer
Compost refers to organic matter that has completed the fermentation and decomposition process, transforming into a safe, nutrient-rich state for plants. Once compost reaches this stage, it becomes an excellent “soil amendment” that can promote plant growth.
Can You Use It Directly? Should You Mix It with Soil?
Using compost by itself is not appropriate. It’s essential to always combine it with existing soil. Compost alone can cause problems with drainage and aeration, so mixing it with suitable soil creates the ideal growing environment.
What Kind of Soil Should You Mix It With?
Store-Bought Potting Soil Works Best
Potting soil sold at garden centers and home improvement stores has already been balanced with components suitable for plant cultivation, making it perfect for combining with compost. Even beginners can achieve stable growing results with minimal risk of failure.
For those interested in organic gardening, organic potting soil is recommended.
When Using Red Clay Soil, Leaf Mold, etc.
Depending on the characteristics of the plants you’re growing and your cultivation goals, you can fine-tune the soil’s physical properties by using red clay soil to improve drainage or leaf mold to enhance moisture retention. This more specialized approach allows you to create an optimized environment for your plants.
Differences from Natural Soil and Important Considerations
Natural soils like garden soil or field soil may contain undesirable weed seeds or plant pathogens. You can ensure safety by pre-treating the soil, such as exposing it to sunlight for sterilization before use.
Recommended Mixing Ratios for Compost and Soil
For Vegetables and Herbs
Generally, a ratio of about 70% soil to 30% compost is effective. This ratio significantly improves plant growth, but be careful not to use too much compost, as excessive amounts can cause fertilizer burn.
For Flowers and Houseplants
A more conservative blend of about 80% soil and 20% compost is recommended. This maintains visual appeal while suppressing odors, making it suitable for indoor cultivation.
For Ground Planting (Soil Improvement)
Adding compost at a rate of 20-30% to existing garden or field soil can dramatically improve soil structure, creating an ideal growing environment that’s loose and well-aerated.
When and How to Mix
Mix Thoroughly Before Planting
The key to success is thoroughly mixing compost and soil until uniform before sowing seeds or transplanting seedlings. Even mixing creates an environment where plant roots can absorb nutrients uniformly.
Is Just Placing It on the Surface Not Enough?
Simply spreading incompletely aged compost on the soil surface can damage plant root systems. It’s necessary to either properly mix it into the soil or verify the compost’s maturity beforehand.
Can You Plant Immediately After Mixing?
If the compost is fully mature, planting immediately after mixing is fine. However, if the compost isn’t sufficiently aged, it’s recommended to let it settle for 2-3 weeks before use.
Important Points to Consider
Assess the Quality of Your Compost
Good quality compost is characterized by its dark brown or black color, minimal unpleasant odor, and smooth, crumbly texture. Immature compost can cause pest problems and plant diseases, so checking its condition is essential.
Don’t Use Too Much Compost
Excessive nutrient supply can harm plant root systems. Avoid the “more is better” mentality and stick to appropriate mixing ratios for healthy plant development.
pH Adjustment After Mixing Is Also Important
Adjusting the pH level using lime materials to match the soil acidity preferred by your plants is also a crucial step. This allows plants to grow in optimal conditions.
The Key Is Finding the Right Balance Between Soil and Compost!
Creating excellent growing soil requires more than simply adding compost. The proper mixing ratios appropriate for the characteristics of the plants you’re growing, combined with application at the optimal timing, are extremely important factors.
Let’s mix compost with soil and put it to good use in home cultivation!
