Can Plants Grow in Applesauce?

Compost

• When you toss applesauce into the compost bin it begins to decompose. Soil-dwelling microbes feed on plant matter and initiate the decay process. This same process happens naturally outdoors, but at a slower rate. Inside a compost bin, conditions are ideal for rapid decomposition. When the microbes have completed their work, compost becomes dark brown, powdery and is called hummus.

Benefits

• The chief benefit of compost is as a soil conditioner. Compost loosens the texture of hard clay soils, improving drainage, root penetration and aeration. When added to sandy soils, compost improves water and nutrient retention. Compost boosts the activity of soil microbes that help release nutrients from organic matter in the soil. According to the Ohio State University Extension, the addition of compost to your soil can reduce the need for pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Composting also helps the environment by reducing the amount of garbage in landfills.

Making Compost

• If an item once was growing in the ground, it's likely safe to compost. Sawdust, grass clippings, leaf litter, tree branches and other yard debris, including spent annual flowers and vegetables, are all safe to compost. From the kitchen, any vegetable and fruit peels, leftover salad, applesauce, unused produce, coffee grounds and eggshells are suitable for compost. Don't compost animal matter, such as meat, bones and dairy products. These items can contain bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella which may contaminate your soil.

Using Compost

• Use compost throughout your landscape. It's suitable for lawns, flower beds and vegetable gardens. Till flower bed and garden soil to a depth of 6 inches and thoroughly mix compost with native soil. Sprinkle compost over your lawn after mowing. Mulch ornamental trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables with compost to help retain moisture and control weeds. When mixed with potting soil, compost is also suitable for growing plants in containers.