1. What is the Compost Calculator?

The Compost Calculator helps gardeners determine how much compost they need for a specific garden area based on the desired depth of application.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Garden area in square feet
• \( Depth \) — Desired compost depth in inches

Explanation: The calculator converts depth from inches to feet (dividing by 12) and then multiplies by area to get cubic feet. It also provides the equivalent in cubic yards.

3. Importance of Compost Calculation

Details: Proper compost application ensures optimal soil health without over-application which can lead to nutrient imbalances or under-application which may not provide sufficient benefits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your garden area accurately in square feet. Typical compost application depths range from 1-3 inches for top dressing or 4-6 inches for new beds.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I measure my garden area?
A: For rectangular areas, multiply length by width. For irregular shapes, break into smaller rectangles or use an online mapping tool.

Q2: What's a typical compost application rate?
A: Most gardens benefit from 1-3 inches annually. New beds may need 4-6 inches initially.

Q3: How many bags of compost will I need?
A: A typical bag contains 1 cubic foot. Divide your total cubic feet by the bag size to determine quantity needed.

Q4: Can I use this for bulk compost orders?
A: Yes, bulk compost is typically sold by the cubic yard. Use the cubic yards result when ordering.

Q5: Should I adjust for compost settling?
A: Compost will settle over time. Consider adding 10-20% extra to account for settling.