Municipal Compost

Watch Reply
More
Mark unread Print Skip to new
MN_brown Minneapolis, MN(Zone 4a) Jun 16, 2009

Has anyone used Municipal compost from the county/city for growing veggies in their garden?

Making my own compost is not an option for me.

I was told by the lady at Lowes to ditch potting soil and fertilizer, and just pick up compost from the municipal composting center.

I read mixed reviews about using it for veggies. Some sites tell you to avoid it as there could be chemicals and diseased plants in it while others say that the composting process does degrade and eliminate any chemicals the original material may have contained.

If I cannot use Municipal compost and since I cannot make my own compost, what are my alternatives?

Post #6694349
Quote
Qinx Fredericksburg, VA(Zone 7a) Jun 16, 2009

Check with a garden center about compost. You can get leaf compost or Black Kow compost at most garden centers including most big box stores.

Post #6694627
Quote
jjconcepts Milford, CT(Zone 6a) Jun 16, 2009

Some people are hardcore organics, some partially.. I don't think there is a problem with municipal. I use it. my pile is only enough for half the garden. The compost is always weedy. last year was a lot of clover. this year I have TOMATOES! EVERYWHERE!! never thought there could be soo much. Anyhow. there is no control of what you will get, and most municipal at least around here is farm waste combined with leaves, tree seeds, and homeowners weeds. I am sure most chemicals have broken down or washed off ...

-joe-

Post #6695368
Quote
GreenGuvnor Somerset, NJ(Zone 6b) Jun 17, 2009

Instead of using municipal compost, I got a composter from my municipality to make my own compost. That way I know exactly what is going into the mix itself, and it brews fairly quickly (so long as you turn it regularly). I'm not sure if I'd trust my municipality's compost. I got some recycled mulch one time and it had termites in it!!!

The government heavily subsidizes these programs. For example, the composter from my township cost $30, whereas buying the same model online would have cost over $130!!

Post #6698984
Quote

Post a Reply to this Thread

Please or sign up to post.
Back to Forum Homepage

More Beginner Gardening Threads

Go to all Beginner Gardening threads
BACK TO TOP