7 Reasons to Compost

Mar 10

Written By Jo Magliocco

1. Improves Soil Structure

Compost binds soil particles into stable clumps (aggregates).
Clay soil: loosens it, improving drainage and root growth
Sandy soil: helps it hold water and nutrients
All soils become easier to work with and less compacted
Roots grow deeper and stronger.

2. Adds Slow-Release Nutrients

Compost contains nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals.
Nutrients are released gradually, reducing runoff and plant burn.
Supports steady plant growth instead of quick, weak growth.
Result: Healthier plants with fewer fertilizer needs.

3. Feeds Beneficial Soil Life

Compost introduces and feeds:

Beneficial bacteria and fungi
Earthworms
Microorganisms that break down organic matter

These organisms:

Convert nutrients into plant-available forms
Improve disease resistance
Build long-term soil fertility

4. Improves Water Management

Compost increases soil’s ability to:
Absorb water during rain or irrigation
Drain excess water to prevent root rot
Retain moisture during dry periods
Result: Less watering and reduced plant stress.

5. Helps Balance Soil pH

Compost tends to buffer soil pH:
Reduces acidity in very acidic soils
Moderates alkaline soils which make nutrients more available to plants.

6. Suppresses Some Diseases and Weeds

Healthy, compost-rich soil:

Encourages microbes that compete with disease organisms
Reduces weed seed germination when used as mulch

7. Improves Long-Term Soil Fertility

Unlike synthetic fertilizers, compost:

Builds soil over time
Improve results each season
Reduces dependence on chemical inputs

How to Use Compost in a Home Garden

New beds: Mix 2–3 inches into the top 6–8 inches of soil
Existing beds: Top-dress with 1–2 inches each spring
Mulch: Use around plants to retain moisture

Container Gardening: Mix 20–30% compost with potting mix. Is the soil in your backyard not the greatest?

Check out our Instant Garden 6 and 8 5-gallon bucket racks or individual 5-gallon buckets for maximum flexibility without the weeds.

Compost doesn’t just “feed plants”—it creates living soil that supports strong roots, healthy growth, and better harvests year after year.

Want to start making your own food-based compost at home? We can supply you with hand-made 3-bin compost systems, a handy wooden material screener, 4’ x 8’ wooden raised beds, Instant 6 or 8 5-gallon garden systems, along with individual 5-bucket gardens. We collect the 5-gallon plastic food-grade buckets from area restaurants.