sa composters faq's

What does NASAA certification mean?  

To increase customer confidence in our products, SA Composters have the compost certified as organic.  The National Association of Sustainable Agriculture Australia (NASAA) take independent samples for chemical residue testing.  The extensive composting process and fine screening are further safeguards guaranteeing the highest quality.

Why use Mulch and / or Compost?  

Make the best use of water used in the garden suggests Matt Quinn, Proprietor of SA Composters at Lonsdale.  "Try imitating natures ways of mulching in forests.  The forest floor is always multi-layered with old black humus on top of the soil followed by fresher leaves, fronds etc being continuously added to the surface." Matt says "This surface layer helps reflect the drying effects of the sun, allowing the humus layer below to stay moist and do its job of improving the soil.  A rich ecosystem can develop in this protected zone with worms, beetles, fungi and microbes all involved in a cycle that results in free food for plants and trees."  In your garden this wonderful scenario can be encouraged by the way you choose to mulch, water and fertilise.

Do I need to dig the compost in?  

Yes & No! If you are starting a new garden in poor soil better results will be achieved by digging it in. Established gardens respond best to a light mulching around the plants with the compost. Small weeds are effectively smothered and the dark background colour gives a great contrast against the foliage and flowers.

How much do I use?  

More in sandy soils, less in clayey soils. More when digging through a new garden, less when mulching existing garden beds. A regular light dressing (1-2cm ) is a great way to build rich living soil and best simulates how compost is added in nature. More may be required to smother weedy areas between plants if the compost is being used to reduce weeding.

Will it burn young seedlings?  

The compost has already gone through the hot treatment phase so it is safe to use with young seedlings. However, great care should always be taken to keep seedlings very well watered and fertilised while they settle in.

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