Not so long ago, finding good quality compost was not that easy. But times have changed. Nowadays, and for the years to come, good and affordable compost can be found in a lot of places due to the establishment of new legislations all across North America. In fact, municipalities, institutions and businesses are already using the sorting-composting approach, or will have to, in a near future. So, following the principle of supply and demand, you can now get good compost at a good price.
Landscaping Business Opportunities with Compost This is excellent news for landscapers and a promising future with great business opportunities. Since the recent legislations are limiting the use chemical products and putting in place water restrictions for irrigation in several states for lawn care and landscaping, the need for compost is increasing.
Today, good quality compost is not as expensive as it used to be and it is available at several places such as garden centers, landscape suppliers or compost producers for 15$ - 25$/yd3.
Top dressing with compost is the best way to maintain a beautiful and healthy lawn and landscape. In fact, this method is part of a professional and complete maintenance program and it will improve the entire landscape. Top dressing with compost is perfect for grass, trees and shrubs. It provides all the essential nutrients for an excellent soil and healthy plants.
1. What are the benefits of compost spreading? A. Provides all the essential nutrients needed for a rich and a healthy soil;
B. increases resistance to all kinds of parasites such as fungus and harmful insects;
C. helps the soil structure in retaining water;
D. stimulates microbiological activity;
E. neutralizes the pH of the soil.
2. How do we spread compost?
Top dressing with compost
By using the top dressing method in combination with other services such as re-seeding, core aeration, corn gluten or/and organic fertilizer application = 1 yd3/2000 sq.ft.
Turf renovation
To repair damages caused during winter or during a draught, and by insects, or to improve poor density turf: (1 yd3/1000 sq.ft)
a) Core aeration
b) Seeding
c) Top dressing.
Seeding with compost
Seeding with compost is more efficient than hydro seeding and without the need for synthetic fertilizer. For the landscaper, seeding with compost generates more profit for his business.
This service is highly in demand (1.5 yd3/1000 sq.ft.)
3. How much does it cost?
The best way to determine the cost you will charge your clients is counting by the cubic yard. You need to measure the dimensions of the area to be top dressed.
For top dressing, we suggest the application of 1 yd3 for 2000 sq.ft.
For turf renovation it should be 1 yd3 for 1000 sq.ft.
For seeding with compost, you will need to calculate 1.5 yd for 1000sq ft.
Then you multiply the cost of the compost, including delivery, by 3, 4 or 5:
$ X 3 times for municipalities (parks/ sports fields);
$ X 4 times for commercial;
$ X 5 times for residential (or less than 10 000 sq ft.)
It is as simple as that!
Any questions please, e-mail Ecolawn at: info (AT) ecolawnapplicator.com.
Daniel Cote
Ecolawn
62 Railroad Ave
Norton, Vermont
www.ecolawnapplicator.com
