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Compost vs. Mulch: What is the Difference?

What is compost?

Compost is the result of the decomposition of organic material by microbes that has many environmental benefits. This delicate process is contingent upon many elements (mainly air and moisture) and must maintain a particular temperature within the compost pile to ensure pests, pathogens, and weed seeds are destroyed in the process. Compost is made of a combination of materials:

  • Wood chips

  • Yard clippings

  • Paper products

  • Vegetable scraps

  • Fruit scraps

  • Manure

  • Biosolids

Regarding when to use compost, it is most ideal for mixing into soil (tilling) or it can be applied to the top of soil. Though the above mixture of materials paints a messy image in the mind, the finished product that is compost is often a beautiful, rich, deep brown color and gives off a pleasant earthy aroma. Compost is rich in nutrients and can be applied to landscapes, gardens, potted plants, farmland, and more.

What is mulch?

Mulch is a mixture of material that is applied to the top of soil. Mulch is comprised of mainly these materials:

  • Grass clippings

  • Wood chips

  • Cardboard

  • Leaves

  • Rocks

  • Straw

  • Shredded tires

Although mulch does not contain the dense amounts of nutrients as it's compost counterpart, mulch can be used to reduce erosion and weeds, increase water retention, and boost soil vitality. Something to note: when purchasing mulch, make sure to only purchase a product that has been through a steralization process or you may find yourself with pests or weeds.

Have you started your own composting pile at home? Do you have questions about mulch? Call us today and give us the dirt (mulch joke...)! (844) 88TAKE2 or (844) 888-2532

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