A band in the bottom of a row trench or several shovels full of compost can be added to the bottom of planting holes. This is especially true of singly planted tomato plants, perennial flowers, or trees or shrubs. As a general rule, mix equal parts of compost and water. The leftover compost can be added to garden soil later. One of the most beneficial practices for summer gardening in Kansas is the use of a mulch.
Mulches hold moisture in the soil, prevent weed growth, and reduce soil crusting and splashing.
Mulches also help to keep the soil cooler in hot summer conditions. A layer of compost 2 to 3 inches thick along the row of garden vegetables or flowers, or spread around perennial flowers, trees or shrubs reduces the moisture fluctuations and reduces evaporation of water from the soil surface. After the garden season, simply till the mulch into the soil as a source of organic material. A Potting Mix for Seedlings. Using Compost on a Lawn.