Composting 101: Creative Ideas to Turn Your Scraps into Garden Gold

You picked up your free compost from NASA Services and the City of Glendale. Now it is time to put it to good use. Compost is one of the easiest ways to boost soil health, improve plant growth, and make your garden thrive. Whether you have a small yard or just a few pots on your patio, here are simple and effective ways to use compost at home.

6 Ways to Make Use of Your Compost

1. Mix Compost Into Garden Soil

Turn your free compost into a nutrient boost for your plants. Before planting, mix a few inches of compost into your soil to:

• Add valuable organic nutrients

• Help the soil hold moisture longer

• Encourage strong, healthy roots

For most gardens, use about one part compost to three parts soil. This combination supports flowers, vegetables, and shrubs throughout the season.

2. Use Compost as Mulch

Compost also works great as mulch. Spread a one to two inch layer around trees, shrubs, and garden beds to:

• Lock in moisture and reduce watering needs

• Prevent weeds naturally

• Add slow-release nutrients to the soil

Keep the compost a few inches away from plant stems to prevent rot.

3. Revive Your Lawn

Give your lawn a natural upgrade by top-dressing with compost.

• Rake a thin layer, about half an inch, evenly across the grass

• Water thoroughly after applying

This process restores nutrients, encourages new growth, and improves soil structure. It is especially helpful for dry or compacted lawns in Southern California.

4. Feed Houseplants and Potted Plants

Compost is just as useful indoors. Mix a small handful into potting soil or sprinkle a thin layer on top of houseplants every few months. It releases nutrients gradually and keeps plants healthy and vibrant.

5. Start a Raised Bed or Vegetable Garden

Compost is an excellent foundation for raised beds. Combine equal parts compost, topsoil, and coarse sand or perlite for a loose, nutrient-rich mix that vegetables love. It helps roots breathe and improves drainage.

6. Boost Trees and Shrubs

For established trees and shrubs, spread compost around the base once or twice a year. It feeds the roots, improves the surrounding soil, and mimics the natural forest floor environment.

Keep Composting, Keep Growing

Using compost is one of the simplest ways to live sustainably while improving your soil. Every handful returns nutrients to the earth and reduces waste in our landfills.

If you picked up free compost from NASA Services’ Glendale event, put it to work in your yard or garden and see the difference it makes in your plants.