I've read both these opinions on when and how to use your compost: till/work it in or use it as a top dressing. One of my bins is ready to use now, and I need to get it out and make room, so I can turn my newer batch into it. So, gotta do something with the "ready" batch. I'd like to till my garden now, so I can pull out all those roots that are always under there, put the compost on, add some mulch, and then till it all again come March to be ready to plant. If I don't add the compost now, I'll have to just shovel it out in a pile near the garden, and then use a wheelbarrow in March to get it on (more work). I already have the compost in my truck, which is tying it up for other use.
Your thoughts on compost, please
You could put it on the garden now as you indicated, or leave in a pile and cover it with a tarp to prevent leaching and spread it in the spring.
You can also store some up in large covered bins, to use later in the year as you need it.
Anyway you do it it's all good.
Happy composting!!!
I agree w Josephine. It should be fine to put in the garden now, leaving it all winter and till it in the spring. Or store in bins and wait til you're ready to use it. Yet another option would be to start a second pile, this way you can begin a new pile without rushing to clear out the old.
Wish my compost was ready.. maybe it was too dry this year?
What you suggest, tilling then composting and mulching, is a great way to overwinter your bed. I did the same thing this summer in an area and the ground is perfect now for my winter veggies. I do it because mine is so heavily manure based that it gives everything a couple extra months to insure it is cool.
Thanks all. Just got home, so after an hour or so in my chair (recharging), my plan is to TIL.