Types of compost bins 6. Compost is a rich and crumbly blend of partially decomposed organic material that does wonderful things for your garden. Compost improves soil structure. Most gardeners don t start with great soil. Whether yours is hard and compacted, sandy, stony, heavy, or wet, adding compost will improve its texture, water-holding capacity, and fertility.
Compost provides a balanced source of plant nutrients.
Even if you are lucky enough to have great soil, you can t expect that soil to remain rich and productive without replenishing the nutrients that are consumed each growing season. No commercial fertilizer, even one that is totally organic, provides the full spectrum of nutrients that you get with compost. The nutrients are available gradually, as your plants need them, over a period of months or years. The microorganisms in the compost will also help your plants absorb nutrients from fertilizers more efficiently. Compost stimulates beneficial organisms.