Composting, a controlled process for stabilization of organic matter, can turn organic waste into a valuable soil amendment. Compost can return nutrients and organic matter to the soil, a proven practice for soil health enhancement. It can improve crop growth and provide environmental benefits by improving soil tilth and the soil’s capacity to absorb and hold water and plant nutrients. A properly managed composting process can destroy weed seeds, plant pathogens, and human pathogens.
Compost analysis assists buyers of bulk compost to be confident that they are receiving good value for their money. This publication is designed for wholesale buyers of compost for resale, farmers, nursery managers, and public/private landscape managers.
This publication focuses on the following:
Selecting a laboratory to perform compost analyses
Recognizing the different approaches used for analysis of compost intended for field application versus compost used in potting soil
Determining which compost analyses are most relevant to your needs
Assessing whether compost is sufficiently stabilized for its intended use
Avoiding overapplication of composts that are high in soluble salts or have a pH unsuited to the crop being grown