Compost can be used in three ways:

1. Mulch: Compost is a good mulch for all types of plants. It can be used in flower and vegetable gardens as well as around trees and shrubs. You can use compost in place of peat moss, bark nuggets, shredded bark and straw. When using as a mulch, spread compost around evenly in a layer 1 to 2 inches deep. It should be spread around trees and shrubs 3 to 4 inches deep. Never pile compost against the trunks and stems of plants.
2. Soil Amendment: Compost can be mixed with the soil before planting lawns, flower or vegetable gardens. It can be used like peat moss or mushroom manure to loosen heavy clay soils and to bind light sandy soils. Because compost is not a fertilizer, you may need to apply fertilizer as well.
3. Potting Mix: Compost can be used to make potting mixes for houseplants and planting boxes. Compost should be sifted to remove any large pieces that are not fully decayed. No more than 1/4 to 1/3, by volume, of the potting mix should be compost.

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