Measuring & Applying Compost
How Much Do You Need?
It’s important to know how much compost you need. If you don’t measure, you’ll likely buy or use more than you need.
Use our handy compost calculator!
Step One: Calculate the Total Square Footage
Calculate the total square footage of the area.
Step Two: Use Our Guide
Use our Application Guide below to calculate how much compost is required. (Generally you’ll need to apply no more than 1 cubic yard per 1,000 square feet. This results in a thin layer about 1/3 inch deep when spread out uniformly.)*
Step Three: Purchasing Compost
You can purchase bulk compost from your local Regional facility. We’ll also deliver your compost for a fee. There is a minimum quantity for deliveries.
Please e-mail us or call 905-791-7800, ext. 7974 for more information.
*source:iVillage Garden Web
Application Guide
Before you use this guide please note:
- The numbers on this chart indicate total cubic yards of compost required at the indicated depths.
- Square feet ( ft2) x depth in inches (“) x 0.0031 = cubic yards (yd3)
- One metric tonne = 2.5 cubic yards of compost.
- Compost applied at 2 inches thick covers approximately 400 square feet.
| Square Feet | Depth 1/4” | Depth 1” |
| 100 ft2 | 0.20 yd3 | 0.32 yd3 |
| 500 | 0.40 | 1.60 |
| 1,000 | 0.80 | 3.20 |
| 3,000 | 2.40 | 9.60 |
| 5,000 | 4.00 | 16.00 |
| 10,000 | 8.00 | 32.00 |
| 15,000 | 12.00 | 48.00 |
Adding and Blending Compost into the Soil
Are you using the right amount of compost? Use our Application Guide to measure before you apply! |
Adding
Add your compost to the designated area and spread evenly.
Small Areas
Add your compost to the designated area and spread evenly.
Larger Areas
For larger areas, use a wheelbarrow to move and dump the compost in evenly spaced piles.
Rake all of the piles out until the compost is distributed evenly over the entire area.
Blending
Blend the compost by hand or with a rototiller about 5 inches into the soil as evenly as possible. The final soil mix will have a dark, uniform consistency. Place plants or seeds and water thoroughly.