Is Finished Compost a Fertilizer?

Compost can be purchased commercially or created at home.

Compost is the result of the decomposition of organic matter. It is lightweight, humus-like in composition and nutrient-dense, if created properly, and can be used as an organic fertilizer when mixed into existing soil.

Composition

A proper compost is a balance of green and brown organic matter that has been allowed to "cook" and decompose together. Compost can be created simply from one organic source but it will not have the proper amount of balanced nutrients. One-sided compost is better used as a soil conditioner to improve drainage and texture.

Brown Matter

Brown organic matter is carbon-based and will take longer to decompose on its own. Brown matter includes twigs, mulched leaves, dead non-diseased plant matter, sawdust, shredded newsprint (minus the shiny ad pages) and straw.

Green Matter

Green organic matter is higher in nitrogen. The presence of green matter helps attract beneficial insects and worms that work to break down decomposing organic matter and results in a more balanced nutrient level. Too much green matter though and you'll end up with a slimy sludge instead of a fine, powdery soil-like product. Green matter includes fruit and veggie scraps, grass clippings, green, non-diseased plant clippings, crushed eggshells, coffee grinds and manure from plant-eating animals.

References

• Ohio State University Extension: Composting at Home
• University of Minnesota Extension: Composting and Mulching: A Guide to Managing Organic Yard Wastes
• University of Illinois Extension: Composting for the Homeowner

Resources

• University of Missouri Extension: Making and Using Compost