Compost is one of the most essential gardening tools to have in your arsenal. However, not many of us know that there are different types of compost on the market. A popular option is mushroom compost. It is made from a mushroom substrate, the medium in which mushrooms are grown. It is popular because it releases high amounts of nutrients and humus back into the soil.
You should invest in good quality compost for your garden due to its many benefits. It can help to increase the water-retention capacity of the soil, as well as break down any clay that might occur in the soil. Mushroom compost is organic. It therefore also releases much-needed nutrients into the soil, such as Nitrogen, Phosphate and Potassium.
Below we dive a little deeper into everything you need to know about mushroom compost.
First Off, What Is Mushroom Compost?
If you are new to the world of gardening, you are likely wondering what mushroom compost is. In simple terms, it is a type of slow-release, plant-based fertiliser. The compost is the substrate left behind by mushrooms growers who use organic materials such as hay, corn cobs, poultry or horse manure.
Mushroom compost is a substrate that is rich in humus and other essential nutrients. This is due to the products used in it and the fact that mushrooms are so nutrient-dense themselves. The compost by-product of the mushroom growing process does not contain any mushrooms themselves. This often confuses those who are new to the gardening world.
What Can I Use It For?
It is a highly flexible addition to your soil. You can use it as a soil amendment for your grass or lawn. You can also add it to pot plants for a better base to grow in. Be sure to mix the compost with your topsoil for better distribution throughout the garden. You can also use it similarly to mulch in a garden bed, as it can help to deter weed seeds from taking root. Be sure to blend it into your soil so that the nutrients are released evenly.
What Are The Benefits?
Now that your understanding of mushroom compost is a little clearer, you are likely curious about the benefits of this nutrient-dense gardening addition. It is important to remember that mushroom compost is only an addition to your soil to enhance the nutrients and should not replace your soil completely.
Below are just some of the benefits:
- Your soil health will be improved as it is enriched with beneficial microorganisms
- The root structure of your grass will be enhanced, allowing for better plant growth
- No additional fertilisers are needed, meaning that you have less maintenance
- Your soil will be neutralised helping to create an ideal environment for thriving plants, flowers, and even grasses
- It helps to improve the structure of the soil, boosting the absorbency of the soil and minimising your need for watering.
Magnificent Mushroom Compost
Mushroom compost should not be a strange concept, whether you are a new gardener or have an established oasis to work with. It is a nutrient-dense substrate. It can be used for a variety of applications, from new vegetable patches to stunning flower beds. Be sure to look for the organic option, as this eliminates all synthetic fertilisers and allows more humus to be released into the soil.
If you would like to reap the benefits of mushroom compost for your garden, contact Stanler Farms today to find out what we can offer you.
