Compost

The effects of compost on soil health are almost exclusively related to the direct addition of soil organic matter to the soil with several benefits for soil's chemical, physical, and biological properties.

Compost is a great source of plant nutrients that, if used as fertilizers, can contribute to closing the loop of nutrients in agriculture. The C-rich organic compounds in compost are a source of energy for soil microorganisms. 
 
The use of compost is known to improve soil structure, water-holding capacity, and infiltration rates. These changes in soil physical properties, and water cycling and retention capacity, are directly associated with the increases in soil organic matter and biological activity with compost application.  

Compost Connector, Zero FoodPrint's newest program aims to make the best use of California’s rapidly increasing supply of compost by directing it to farms and ranches.

Learn More

Compost Application

The benefits for soil health are largely determined by management decisions such as the rate, timing, frequency, and mode of application (broadcasted vs. banded). Generally, higher application rates and frequency lead to stronger benefits, however, application rates should be chosen carefully not to exceed the Nitrogen loading capacity of the system and increase the potential for leaching, emissions of N2O, or changes in crop vigor that would affect quality.
​
The compost application rate should be carefully chosen based on the desired outcome and compost properties (mostly C to N ratio). 

CDFA Compost Application Rates