How to Use Commercial Compost to Mulch Around Flowers & Vegetables

Overview

Commercial compost provides the same benefits that homemade compost does. It can be used as mulch around flowers and vegetables using the same guidelines. Traditional chemical fertilizers can burn delicate plant root systems. Commercial composted mulch creates a slow release of nutrients into the soil. The billions of living microorganisms in composted soil create a constant flow of nutrients that feed plants at a steady pace. Composted soil is looser in structure and roots can spread and grow more easily. Commercial mulch also conserves water and improves fertility of the soil over time.

How to add mulch to the garden

Step 1

Determine the plants that need to be mulched. Mulch dry flower garden areas to conserve water. Mulch vegetables during growing season. Mulch roses monthly during the summer.

Step 2

With the shovel, put one spadeful of commercial compost at the base of each plant, creating a 2 inch layer of mulch. Spread in a circle 3 inches from the plant's base.

Step 3

Water thoroughly to allow compost nutrients to begin flowing into the soil. Repeat the application of mulch to vegetables monthly. Flowers must be mulched twice during the growing season.