Compost is easily the most valuable and easiest-to-use fertilizer available to the gardener. It is inexpensive because you can make it yourself. There is also no risk of over-fertilization. What should be considered when fertilizing with compost?

Compost is a great fertilizer

Fertilizing with compost - when and how?

You can give compost all year round. In the spring, the compost is spread generously under the plants and - where possible - lightly raked into the soil. Fertilize as needed throughout the year.

There is no risk of over-fertilization with compost. However, you should not overdo it. As a rule of thumb, you should not exceed one kilo of compost per square meter of soil.

Which plants should you not fertilize with compost?

There are a number of plants that are better cared for without compost. Compost can be very acidic or too calcareous. You should not fertilize with compost:

  • azaleas
  • Rhododendrons
  • meadow plants
  • Plants without high nutrient requirements

Give compost to help you start

When planting new trees, shrubs and heavy feeders, you should improve the plant substrate with compost before planting. Work the hummus into the soil.

Sieve compost before fertilizing

It is good practice to sift the mature compost before use. To do this, use a grid that you set up at an angle and pour the compost through.

Sieving creates a particularly finely crumbly soil, which is ideal for young plants.

If you want to use potting soil from compost, you should steam it beforehand. This destroys pests, weed seeds and fungal spores that could harm the seedlings.

Improve acidic compost with lime

Acidic compost is caused by excessive amounts of lawn clippings and leaves. In this case you can improve the compost with lime to increase the pH.

But it is better to have the soil examined in the laboratory beforehand. It is not possible for a layperson to determine the condition of the soil.

tips

Compost that contains materials such as ash, kitty litter, or citrus fruits should not be used for vegetable or fruit plants because of the contaminant and pesticide load. This compost is only suitable for flower beds or lawns.

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Care tips