One of our local grocery stores has been selling compost for years. For years, I have been buying it without problems. This last set of bags had some dense, powdery(?) round balls that seemed like either perlite or styrofoam mixed in the compost. I immediately called the store. They offered to replace the bags. When more of their bags had the same problem, I asked if I can get my money back or get some from another store. I was told to call the manager today. He was not so nice, but he finally offered to give me a refund. (Just needed to vent a little before I asked my question. No need to respond to this.)
HD and Lowes has poor quality compost. Now, it seems that this grocery store's compost may not be made of the best materials. The only place that may still have good compost is OSH. Haven't used it for a while and suspect it may have the same problems. I have enough homemade compost for my beds. However, I would like to make my own potting soil for my containers. Does anyone know of a good commercial source for quality compost in CA?
This message was edited Apr 20, 2010 2:45 PM
This message was edited Apr 20, 2010 3:06 PM
Where can I find good commercial compost?
Try bulk landscape supply companies - the kind that deliver with a truck, not in bags. Go look at the stuff before you buy, talk to them about where it comes from and how its made - and expect it to change seasonally, and not be perfectly consistent. They may be willing to sell in smaller quantities if you are picking it up - or if you find some you really like, you may decide to have them deliver it by the ton.
As for inconsistent stuff in bags - been there, done that. I bought the cheapest potting soil I could find to fill a very large outdoor planter. Most of it was okay for what I was using it for - but one bag turned out to be all wood chips. I sat that bag aside and used it for mulch on top.
The GardenGirltv on her website recommends Organic Mechanics They don't sell it in my area but you can look it up ,it may be in yours. I buy from our local nursery what they use seems to be pretty good.
Another thought might be to ask in the CA gardening forum. You may get more local response? http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/f/region_ca/all/
I would suggest checking on the CA forum as well. Maybe there are some people in your area that know of a good source.
I found a great resource for bulk compost (great stuff!) here through the Permaculture Guild. Also growers at a local farmers' market if you have one.