Do not incorporate into the soil. Nutrients will filter into soil, without robbing nitrogen from the root zone. One disadvantage to using compost as mulch is that it will not act as a barrier to weed growth, but, in fact, will promote weed growth if not covered with a standard mulch material. Compost or mulch should be reapplied yearly to replenish the decomposing layer. To Top Compost as Potting Mix Compost can be used as an excellent potting soil for your container nursery.
Compost offers good water retention qualities and some basic nutrients.
Container grown plants need a potting soil that retains moisture, but is well drained. Most gardening enthusiasts blend compost with coarse sand, perlite, vermiculite, etc. to make optimal planting media. Leaving some coarse or bulky material in the mix will help maintain a well-drained planting media. This is because the decomposition process is continuing near the plant roots and the microorganisms in the compost are competing for nitrogen. See Compost Maturity Tests .