Smelly bagged compost?

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KaylyRed Watertown, WI(Zone 5a) May 04, 2009

I needed to fill in a spot in my garden to get some plants planted quickly this weekend so I bought some bagged compost. I know it's not considered the best choice, but...I was in a hurry. The analysis on the bag is .05-.05-.05. It's composted humus and aged manure.

The problem is that when I opened the bags and started distributing the compost I noticed that it smelled pretty strong. I've always heard that aged compost is supposed to smell earthy, but this stuff smells like driving past a sewage treatment plant. It doesn't even smell like manure. I don't notice any sort of ammonia-type smell, however--just that stinky sewage odor.

I skipped planting for now since I was worried that the smelly compost might burn my plants. Is the strong odor just from it being bagged, or should I be worried that the stuff isn't aged enough? I do want to get these plants in the ground, but I also want to use caution. I don't have much soil to mix with them (this is a raised area I need to fill, and it covers a pet grave from the previous homeowners that i didn't want to disturb).

Suggestions?

Post #6501737
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AvidPAGardener Souderton, PA May 04, 2009

I'd certainly let it air out a bit. If it's still stinky in a few days, you may need to add some carbon-rich material to balance the nitrogen-rich manure ... the best material for adding carbon to the garden (or compost pile) is shredded brown leaves from oaks, maples, etc. but not black walnut trees. A lot of municipalities collect leaves in the fall actually give them away to anyone who wants them. Hope this helps.

Post #6501978
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May 06, 2009

Place the compost in a container, wheelbarrel etc, then add your garden soil. Use the ratio of 1:1. Mix it well, then use it. Most likely the odor is from being closed up in a plastic bag while it is still decomposting.

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