Articles, guides and tutorials on how to use compost to maximum effect, whether it’s improving your grass, growing better veg or preventing disease.
As you might imagine, writing for Compost Magazine, I make a lot of compost. In fact, I currently have no less than ten compost setups—although some are experimental, and others were hastily assembled to deal with a trailer load of manure I received over the weekend. (The mini-windrow below, for example, was created when I’d […]
4 Productive Vegetables That Thrive Without Compost Read More »
Just last week, I reported on research from Stockbridge Technology Centre (STC) that found many peat-free composts delivered unacceptable results. Of course, I wanted to know more – and get tips for gardeners on how to select and get the most out of these composts. Julian Davies, Agronomist and Commercial Director of STC kindly agreed
The Problem With Peat-Free Compost (And How to Fix It) Read More »
28/01/24 A new study from the Czech Republic has reinforced the remarkable benefits of surface-applied compost on soil health. Unlike traditional methods that involve tilling compost into the soil, this approach reinforces known benefits by applying stable, mature compost directly to the surface—a method that has shown significant improvements in soil properties over just two
Study Confirms Surface-Applied Compost Outshines Traditional Methods Read More »
If you’re considering composting, you may be wondering whether the money savings are worth the effort. First, it’s worth noting that if you have a large garden and mulch the beds to improve soil structure, those money savings can really add up. But that’s really not the only benefit to homemade compost. So in this
Why Homemade Compost is (Usually) Better Than Store-Bought Compost Read More »
At work last year, one of my colleagues decided to grow a tonne of chili plants. He promised to distribute some of these chilis amongst the rest of us. I’d requested Jalapenos, as this breed was missing from my own collection this year. When they came, the chili plants were poor specimens indeed. Each one
The Magic Of Worm Castings (And How to Use Them) Read More »
I sometimes buy compost in serious bulk. Last year, for example, a friend and I went halves on a pallet load of compost, which we got at cost price from a retailer who owed us a favor. That’s 36 bags of 50-liter John Innes compost, which is a lot of compost. I didn’t use it
How Long Does Compost Last? (Plus How To Make It Last Longer) Read More »
Some people rave about mushroom compost – and wax lyrical about its impact on their soil and plants. It’s true that mushroom compost can be good for your soil – but there are caveats. Ultimately, the impact of this compost depends on different factors. These include soil, the plants you are growing, and the quantity
Mushroom Compost: The Bad, The Good and The Beautiful Read More »
Walk into a garden center, and you’ll likely be greeted by a dizzying array of compost options. With so many choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — and it can be hard to figure out which one is right for your needs. This guide simplifies the process by breaking down 12 common types of compost,
Types of Compost (Plus How to Choose the Right One) Read More »
Both gardening and composting are full of controversy. Compost tea is no different. You’ll find experts and scientists that believe compost tea makes no difference to plants – and could even be harmful. You’ll also find other experts that are convinced it can prevent disease and introduce beneficial microbes to your soil. Let’s take a
Compost Tea: What is it, how to use it and does it work? Read More »
After months or even years, your homemade compost is ready. It’s matured, darkened and gained a fresh earthy smell. Now it’s time to use it – and what a lot of uses there are for it! In fact, the many uses of compost all around the garden mean that even the keenest of gardeners usually
How to Use Compost For Maximum Effect Read More »