Compost Mulch Installation

What This Service Involves

Compost mulch is finished, screened organic matter spread as a top layer to nourish the soil and the plants growing in it. Unlike bark, which mainly sits on the surface, compost actively feeds the root zone as rain and worms carry its nutrients down into Pacific Northwest beds. It dramatically improves the water-holding and drainage of both our heavy clay and sandy soils, making it a favorite for vegetable gardens, perennial borders, and tired lawns. A one-to-two inch layer suppresses many weeds while giving beds a rich, dark, uniform finish. Because it breaks down fully, we typically top-dress with compost each season as part of a healthy-soil routine.

Benefits

Feeds soil and plants as it breaks down; Improves both clay and sandy PNW soils; Boosts moisture retention and drainage together; Suppresses weeds with a rich dark finish; Excellent for vegetable beds and perennial borders

Our Process

1) Assess soil and beds to confirm compost is the right top-dressing; 2) Clear weeds and lightly loosen the soil surface; 3) Spread a one-to-two inch layer of screened compost evenly; 4) Feather it around plants and water it in to settle the layer

What Affects the Cost

Volume and quality of screened compost; Bed square footage and application depth; Weeding and light soil preparation; Delivery of bulk compost to the site; Access for wheelbarrow spreading

Best Time of Year

Compost is best top-dressed in early spring to fuel new growth and again in fall to rebuild soil ahead of the wet Northwest winter.