THE SOURCE FOR COMPOST
Agresource Applications and Specifications Manual
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Table of Contents
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Introduction
Application Rates
Sand Based Rootzones and Compost
Specification: Sports Field Sand Based Rootzone
Soil Based Rootzone and Compost
Specification: Manufactured Sports Field Rootzone
Compost Manufactured Topsoil
Specification: Compost Manufactured Topsoil
Specification: Turf Establishment with Compost
Specification: Compost as Landscape Backfill Mix Component
Specification: Compost as a Landscape Mulch
Specification: Establishment of Planting Beds with Compost
Specification: Compost as a Mulch for Erosion Control
Reference Table
800-313-3320
What is AGRESOIL COMPOST?
AGRESOIL COMPOST is nutrient-rich, high quality compost made from thermophilic, aerobic decomposition of organic residues under controlled conditions. Different varieties of AGRESOIL COMPOST are made from particular feedstocks that produce certain properties and characteristics. The properties of each compost variety determine its best application.
The specifications in this manual outline ranges for key parameters compost must have to be acceptable for each type of application.
PRODUCTION PROCESS
What makes AGRESOIL COMPOST extremely consistent?
By utilizing advanced composting systems, AGRESOIL COMPOST is the most consistent source of compost available.
An example of one of the specialized processes used to produce AGRESOIL COMPOST is the IPS Composting System: a proprietary system designed and marketed by International Process Systems. The IPS system is a completely enclosed (in-vessel) facility allowing effective control of all environmental conditions and accelerating the aerobic composting process. With both computers and skilled professionals monitoring the composting process the optimum levels of temperature, moisture and oxygen are maintained during composting. After production the compost is cured and tested to meet state regulatory standards.
Each specialized process is designed to insure that the finished compost contains the nutrients and beneficial micro‑organisms needed to improve plant material growth and health.
AVAILIBILITY
Agresource is the leading supplier of compost in the New England. AGRESOIL COMPOST is available in 50-70 cuyd loads and in smaller quantities through a network of distributors. Please call 800-313-3320 for a quote or delivery.
APPLICATION RATES FOR AGRESOIL COMPOST
TURF ESTABLISHMENT / SOD INSTALLATION / SOIL RENOVATION:
Incorporate 1 to 3 inches of AGRESOIL COMPOST into the top 4 to 6 inches of soil (3-9 cuyds/1000 sq.ft). Use higher rate for less fertile soil.
TURF MAINTENANCE / TOPDRESSING:
Broadcast 1/3 inch of AGRESOIL COMPOST (approximately 1 cuyd/1000sqft) on established turf and rake in. For best results aerate soil prior to topdressing.
FLOWER BEDS / GROUND COVERS:
Mix or rototil 1 to 3 inches of AGRESOIL COMPOST into the soil prior to planting.
TREE AND SHRUB PLANTING:
Uniformly mix AGRESOIL COMPOST with existing soil and use at a rate of 25% AGRESOIL COMPOST to 75% soil and use as backfill for trees and shrubs.
SHRUB MAINTENANCE / MULCHING:
Spread AGRESOIL COMPOST 2 to 3 inches thick over planting areas or individual plant pits.
FIELD NURSERY PRODUCTION:
Incorporate 2 to 3 inches of AGRESOIL COMPOST into the top 4 to 6 inches of soil. Test soil pH levels where ericaceous crops are grown.
POTTING MEDIUMS / CONTAINER PLANTS:
Custom blend AGRESOIL COMPOST (1/10 to 1/3 by volume) with traditional potting mediums. Water thoroughly after planting.
GOLF COURSES:
Tee and Green Construction
Blend 20% AGRESOIL COMPOST with 80% USGA specific sand, mix thoroughly, seed or sod. (Screen AGRESOIL COMPOST to 1/4 prior to blending)
Topdressing
Broadcast 1/4 inch of AGRESOIL COMPOST on fairway, green or tee and rake/sweep off any debris. Topdressing after core aeration is most effective.
The rates listed above are general recommendations for use. Existing soil should be tested and a horticultural professional or extension agent consulted for specific uses.
SAND BASED ROOTZONES & COMPOST
Sand based rootzone mixes have been common for years in USGA golf course greens. Today athletic field construction has also turned to these manufactured root zones to keep over-used fields in play through various climactic conditions. An organic component is needed to amend these sand based athletic field root zones to add water and nutrient retention. The most commonly utilized organic amendments are peat products and compost. The organic amendment, along with the sand source, must be selected carefully to develop a quality root zone mix.
Sand based root zone mixes are manufactured soils developed to provide all the properties necessary to sustain healthy growth of turfgrass, provide a playable surface in various climatic conditions and also resist compaction. Native soils may not provide all these unique qualities. Today’s athletic surfaces are being utilized more than ever, players and spectators both have come to expect perfect turfgrass quality. Maintaining athletic surfaces without a quality root zone has become nearly impossible with today’s increased play and demanding standards.
Quality compost has become a useful organic amendment for sand based root zone mixes. Traditionally peat was used as the only suitable organic amendment due to its high organic matter percentage, suitable particle size and consistency. Today biosolid compost has become a clear alternative to peat because of its many qualities and improved production processes. Quality biosolid compost provides enough organic matter, a suitable particle size and the consistency to be used in sand based root zone mixes. Compost has advantages peat products lack as an organic amendment. It provides the root zone with beneficial microbes that improve nutrient availability and have also shown the ability to aid in suppression of soil borne pathogens. Compost adds life to the root zone, as well as organic matter at a reasonable cost.
Compost has been used successfully on many athletic field surfaces. Agresoil bulk compost has been used on over forty sand based athletic surface projects. In each application, the use of a quality compost and sand was necessary to ensure a proper root zone blend, grow-in of the turfgrass and long term durability of the field.
An example of compost used in a sand based root zone mix is the reconstruction of the Great Lawn of Central Park. It was necessary to completely renovate the 15 acre field after the original soils were compacted and turfgrass covered less than half of New York City’s most popular open space. The existing root zone was removed and a drainage system installed prior to the addition of the new root zone. The new root zone mix was developed by Dr. Norman Hummel of Hummel and Co. Inc. and was approximately 7 parts sand (with proper aggregate distribution), 2 parts compost (AGRESOIL COMPOST) and one part topsoil. This manufactured soil was designed to hold up to over 12,000 softball games on its six fields and many other events such as performances by the Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic and many other daily guests. By designing a manufactured soil and monitoring its consistency during delivery, Dr. Hummel and the Central Park Conservancy staff developed an athletic field surface which is withstanding the demands of New York City’s populace.
SAND BASED ROOTZONES & COMPOST, CONT.
A quality root zone mix is developed by first selecting sand with a suitable
particle size distribution and pH. The USGA recommendations are used many
times as a guideline in choosing a sand source. These recommendations focus
on the particle size distribution, most scrutinized is the percentage of silt
and clay particles. A high percentage of silt and clay particles increases
the risk of compaction and reduced infiltration rates. It is also important
to limit the percentage of larger sand particles to aid in the stability of
the root zone mix.
Standards for the compost as the organic amendment are currently incomplete in USGA recommendations, but reputable laboratories require the compost must be from a source that produces a consistent product with a proven track record. The compost is then tested for plant sensitive parameters such as pH, C:N ratio, soluble salts and stability. Organic matter percentage of the compost is many times the limiting factor. The percentage must be high, generally above 60%, to develop a balanced root zone mix; this excludes most leaf and yard waste composts.
USGA Recommendations Particle Size Analysis (ASTM F-1632)
| Gravel 2mm |
V. Course 1 mm |
Coarse 0.5 mm |
Medium 0.25mm |
Fine 0.15 mm |
V. Fine .05mm |
Silt |
Clay |
| ≤ 3 % gravel ≤ 10 % combined |
≥ 60% |
≤ 20% |
≤ 5% |
≤ 5% |
≤ 3% |
Sand based root zone mixes are generally amended with compost at a rate of approximately 10-25 percent. This is determined in the laboratory based on many factors such as final organic matter percentage, particle size distribution and infiltration rates. A well-balanced mix will allow play in wet conditions and resist compaction. These are two factors generally limiting the use of soil fields. As more and more children and adults are participating in athletic activities, it is important to keep athletic fields and golf courses in top playing condition as long as possible.
SPECIFICATION
SPORTS FIELD SAND BASED ROOTZONE
1. DESCRIPTION
This work shall consist of preparing a root zone mixture consisting of sand and compost. The root zone mix will be evaluated by using the ASTM test methods for putting green root zones. A sand sample and compost sample shall be submitted to testing agent for adherence to specifications.
2. MATERIALS
2.1 Processed Sand – The sand shall meet the following criteria:
Sieve Diameter Allowable range
Gravel 10 2.00 0-5%
Very coarse sand 18 1.00 0-20% combined with gravel
Coarse sand 35 0.50 at least 60%
Medium sand 60 0.25 in this range
Fine sand 100 0.15 10% maximum
Very fine sand 270 0.05 3% maximum
Silt 0.002 5% maximum
Clay <0.002 3% maximum
In addition, there should be no more than 10% combined very fine sand, silt and clay.
2.2 Compost- Compost shall be derived from biosolids, clean ground wood, and/or sawdust that meet all State Environmental Agency requirements. The product shall be well composted, free of viable weed seeds and contain material of a generally humus nature capable of sustaining growth of vegetation, with no materials toxic to plant growth.
SPORTS FIELD SAND BASED ROOTZONE, CONTINUED
Compost shall have the following properties:
| Parameters | Range |
| pH | 6.0 - 7.75 |
| Moisture Content | 35% - 55% |
| Soluble Salts | < 4.0 mmhos/(dS) |
| C:N Ratio | 15 - 30:1 |
| Particle Size | < 1/2” |
| Organic Matter Content | > 60% |
| Bulk Density | < 1000 lbs./cubic yard |
| Foreign Matter | < 1% (dry weight) |
Compost generator shall also provide minimum available nitrogen and other macro and micro nutrients to determine fertilizer requirements. Generator shall supply documentation showing state approval.
Product Information - All parameters listed above can be met by AGRESOIL COMPOST as distributed by: Agresource, 100 Main Street, Amesbury, MA 01913, Telephone: 800-313-3320.
3.0 Root Zone Mixture Ratios and Performance Testing
Upon approval of the processed sand and compost components, the owners testing agents shall blend the components to determine the correct ratio of sand and compost to create the root zone mix. This ratio of sand and compost will be based on laboratory testing and performance guidelines established by these specifications.
For bidding purposes, the mix ratio will contain approximately 75 to 85% sand and 25 to 15% compost by volume.
The root zone mix developed by the owners testing agent will establish the required mix ratio and specifications for approval or rejections of all quality control submittals during construction. The construction contractor shall bear the cost of all testing.
Performance Testing: ASTM testing procedures for sand based athletic fields shall be used for performance testing. Water retention shall be done at a tension that corresponds to the depth of the root zone. (30 cm tension for 12-inch root zone, 25 cm for 10 inch). The tests shall comply with the following criteria on a core compacted at 14.3 ft-lbs/square inch.
Infiltration rate (inches per hour) 8 to 14
Bulk density (gm/cc) 1.3 to 1.65
Total porosity 35 – 55%
Saturation percentage 35 – 60%
The root zone mix shall have an organic matter content of 1.5 to 4.0% on a dry weight basis.
SOIL BASED ROOTZONES & COMPOST
Today athletic field construction has turned to manufactured root zones to keep over-used fields in play through various climactic conditions. Fields are generally built with either soil based or sand based systems that are amended with an organic product. While sand based fields create a more durable field that can resist compaction they also require proper irrigation and are more costly to construct. Therefore, soil based rootzones are the most common type of athletic field root zone mix.
Soil based root zone mixes are manufactured soils developed to provide all the properties necessary to sustain healthy growth of turfgrass, provide a playable surface in various climatic conditions and also resist compaction. Generally native soils will not provide all these unique qualities. Soil based root zones are developed by blending a locally available soil and an organic amendment (compost) to improve water and nutrient retention as well as reduce compaction. The organic amendment, along with the soil source, must be selected carefully to develop a quality root zone mix.
Quality compost is an excellent organic amendment for soil based root zone mixes. Traditionally athletic fields were built utilizing locally available topsoil as the root zone. Today manufacturing a root zone with the use of biosolid compost is a clear improvement. Quality biosolid compost provides the root zone with beneficial microbes that improve nutrient availability and have also shown the ability to aid in suppression of soil borne pathogens. Biosolid compost adds life to the root zone, as well as organic matter at a reasonable cost.
A quality root zone mix is developed by first selecting a soil with a suitable particle size distribution and pH. A high percentage of silt and clay particles increases the risk of compaction and reduced infiltration rates. It is also important to limit the percentage of larger sand particles to aid in the stability of the root zone mix. The organic amendment (compost) must be tested for plant sensitive parameters such as pH, C:N ratio, soluble salts and stability. Organic matter percentage of the compost is many times the limiting factor. The percentage must be high, generally above 60%, to develop a balanced root zone mix.
Soil based root zone mixes are generally amended with compost at a rate of approximately 15-30 percent. This rate is generally determined by the final organic matter percentage of the root zone. A field that is irrigated requires a 4-5 percent organic matter level while a non-irrigated field should have 5-6 percent organic matter. A well-designed mix will provide safe playing conditions and superior turfgrass quality.
SOIL BASED ROOTZONES & COMPOST, CONT.
The chart below aids in estimating percentage of AGRESOIL COMPOST to blend with a soil to reach the target organic matter percentage. The left column is the percentage needed to boost the organic matter to your target value. The right column contains the percentage of AGRESOIL COMPOST needed to reach the target organic matter percentage. (i.e. to improve a soil from 2% to the target of 5% you would need to add 3% O.M., therefore you would amend the soil with approx. 22% AGRESOIL COMPOST)
| % to raise | AGRESOIL COMPOST inclusion | |
| 1% | 8% | |
| 2% | 15% | All rates based on addition |
| 3% | 22% | of AGRESOIL COMPOST to a |
| 4% | 27% | typical soil weighing |
| 5% | 32% | 2600lbs/cuyd. |
| 6% | 37% |
Today’s athletic surfaces are being utilized more than ever; players and spectators both have come to expect perfect turfgrass quality. Maintaining athletic surfaces without a quality root zone has become nearly impossible with today’s increased play and demanding standards.
SPECIFICATION
MANUFACTURED SPORTS FIELD ROOT ZONE
1. DESCRIPTION
This work shall consist of preparing a root zone manufactured from compost and other soil constituents for use in athletic field construction. This material can be either pre-blended and brought on-site or the compost can be blended with soils stockpiled at the construction site.
2. MATERIALS
2.1 Compost - Compost shall be derived from organic wastes including sawdust, clean ground wood, leaf and yard residues, and biosolids that meet all State Environmental Agency requirements. The product shall be well composted, free of viable weed seeds and contain material of a generally humus nature capable of sustaining growth of vegetation, with no materials toxic to plant growth.
Compost shall have the following properties:
| Parameters | Range |
| pH | 5.5 - 7.5 |
| Moisture Content | 35% - 55% |
| Soluble Salts | < 4.0 mmhos (dS) |
| C:N Ratio | 15 - 30:1 |
| Particle Size | < ½” |
| Organic Matter Content | < 40% |
| Bulk Density | < 1000 lbs./cubic yard |
| Foreign Matter | < 1% (dry weight) |
Compost generator shall also provide minimum available nitrogen and other macro and micro nutrients to determine fertilizer requirements. Generator shall supply documentation showing state approval for intended use.
Product Information - All parameters listed above can be met by AGRESOIL COMPOST distributed by: Agresource, 100 Main Street, Amesbury, MA 01913, Telephone 800-313-3320.
MANUFACTURED SPORTS FIELD ROOT ZONE, Cont.
2.2 Soil Component - Soil shall consist of loose, friable soil, free of ice, snow and rubbish with no admixture of refuse or material toxic to plant growth. Soil shall be reasonably free of stones, lumps, roots and weeds or similar objects larger than a half inch in diameter.
A. Soil shall meet additional parameters:
Parameters Range
pH 6.0 - 7.5
Moisture Content 25% - 55%
Soluble Salts <2.5 mmhos (dS)
Stone and Debris < 1% (by weight)
Foreign Matter <.05% (by weight)
B. Particle Size
• 100% by volume must pass a 1 inch screen.
• 95% by volume must pass a 1/2 inch screen.
• Not more than 70% of the soil by weight shall be less than .25 mm (fine sand) of which no more than 25% by weight shall consist of particles less than .002 mm (clay).
3. MANUFACTURED SPORTS FIELD ROOT ZONE
Manufactured sports field root zone shall consist of soil as described in Section 2.2 amended with compost as described in Section 2.1. Compost manufactured topsoil shall be free of refuse, stones, lumps, roots and weeds or similar objects larger than one inch in diameter. Compost manufactured topsoil will be uniformly mixed to meet the final requirements listed below:
A. Parameters Range
pH 6.0-7.5
Moisture Content 30% - 55%
Soluble Salts < 2.0 mmhos (dS)
Organic Matter 5-6%
Foreign Matter <0.5% (by weight)
MANUFACTURED SPORTS FIELD ROOT ZONE, Cont.
B. Particle Size
• 100% (by volume) must pass through a 1 inch screen.
• 95% (by volume) must pass through a 1/2 inch screen.
Compost manufactured topsoil shall meet the following mechanical analysis:
Textural Class % of Total Weight Average %
Sand (0.05 - 2.0 mm dia. range) 45-75 60
Silt (0.002-0.05 mm dia. range) 15-35 25
Clay (less than 0.002 mm dia range) 5-20 15
4. CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS
Manufactured athletic field root zone shall be spread evenly upon the previously prepared subgrade surface to the depth specified on the plans. The manufactured athletic field root zone shall be spread in such a manner as to establish a loose, friable seedbed.
5. METHOD OF MEASUREMENT
All compost manufactured topsoil, loam and compost will be measured by the cubic yard.
COMPOST MANUFACTURED TOPSOIL
Compost manufactured topsoil is a practical and necessary alternative to stripped topsoil. Topsoil has become increasingly scarce and expensive for use on landscape projects. The daily usage of inferior soils on many turfgrass and landscape projects can have dramatic effects on soil structure and plant material health.
Agresource has worked with both state agencies, landscape architects and engineers to promote the use of compost in topsoil manufacturing. Manufactured topsoil is produced by using ingredients that are readily available: low organic matter subsoils, sand and compost. By analyzing these ingredients you can create the correct admixture to produce a topsoil that has the structure, organic matter and nutrients available to produce lush vegetative growth.
Compost manufactured topsoil has many benefits, which include both economics and performance. Using manufactured topsoil can guarantee that the soil specification can meet many parameters due to the distinct qualities of the ingredients. Mixing together a sandy soil that has an aggregate distribution which will prevent compaction and compost which is high in organic matter will yield a soil which could be used for athletic field construction. These materials lack key properties individually, but mixed properly can create a superior topsoil.
Beneficial reuse of materials such as subsoils, sands and compost on projects will help eliminate the need to strip virgin soils. The unregulated use of stripped topsoil will eventually begin to deplete this natural resource. This trend has led many states agencies, landscape architects and engineers to begin developing specifications to utilize compost manufactured topsoil. The following pages contain model specifications for compost manufactured topsoil.
SPECIFICATION
COMPOST MANUFACTURED TOPSOIL
1. DESCRIPTION
This work shall consist of preparing topsoil manufactured from compost and other soil constituents for use in turf or planting areas. This material can be either pre-blended and brought on-site or the compost can be blended with soils stockpiled at the construction site.
2. MATERIALS
2.1 Compost - Compost shall be derived from organic wastes including sawdust, clean ground wood, leaf and yard residues, and biosolids that meet all State Environmental Agency requirements. The product shall be well composted, free of viable weed seeds and contain material of a generally humus nature capable of sustaining growth of vegetation, with no materials toxic to plant growth.
Compost shall have the following properties:
Parameters |
Range |
pH |
5.5 - 8.0 |
Moisture Content |
35% - 55% |
Soluble Salts |
< 4.0 mmhos (dS) |
C:N Ratio |
15 - 30:1 |
Particle Size |
< ¾” |
Organic Matter Content |
> 20% |
Bulk Density |
< 1200 lbs./cubic yard |
Foreign Matter |
< 1% (dry weight) |
Compost generator shall also provide minimum available nitrogen and other macro and micro nutrients to determine fertilizer requirements. Generator shall supply documentation showing state approval for intended use.
Product Information -All parameters listed above can be met by AGRESOIL COMPOST® as distributed by: Agresource, 100 Main Street, Amesbury, MA 01913 Telephone 800-313-3320.
COMPOST MANUFACTURED TOPSOIL CONTINUED
2.2 Soil Component - Soil shall consist of loose, friable soil, free of ice, snow and rubbish with no admixture of refuse or material toxic to plant growth. Soil shall be reasonably free of stones, lumps, roots and weeds or similar objects larger than two inches in diameter.
A. Soil shall meet additional parameters:
Parameters Range
pH 5.5 - 7.5
Moisture Content 25% - 55%
Soluble Salts 2.5 mmhos (dS)
Stone and Debris < 5% (by weight)
Foreign Matter <.05% (by weight)
B. Particle Size
• 100% by volume must pass a 2 inch screen.
• 95% by volume must pass a 3/4 inch screen.
• Not more than 60% of the soil by weight shall be less than .05 mm (very fine sand) of which no more than 25% by weight shall consist of particles less than .002 mm (clay).
3. COMPOST MANUFACTURED TOPSOIL
Compost manufactured topsoil shall consist of soil as described in Section 2.2 amended with compost as described in Section 2.1. Compost manufactured topsoil shall be free of refuse, stones, lumps, roots and weeds or similar objects larger than two inches in diameter. Compost manufactured topsoil will be uniformly mixed to meet the final requirements listed below:
A. Parameters Range
pH 5.5 - 8.0
Moisture Content 30% - 55%
Soluble Salts 2.0 mmhos (dS)
Organic Matter >5%
Foreign Matter <0.5% (by weight)
COMPOST MANUFACTURED TOPSOIL CONTINUED
B. Particle Size
• 100% (by volume) must pass through a 2 inch screen.
• 95% (by volume) must pass through a 3/4 inch screen.
Compost manufactured topsoil shall meet the following mechanical analysis:
Textural Class % of Total Weight Average %
Sand (0.05 - 2.0 mm dia. range) 45-75 60
Silt (0.002-0.05 mm dia. range) 15-35 25
Clay (less than 0.002 mm dia range) 5-20 15
4. CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS
4.1 Turf
Compost manufactured topsoil shall be spread evenly upon the previously prepared subgrade surface to the depth specified on the plans. The compost manufactured topsoil shall be spread in such a manner as to establish a loose, friable seed bed. Measures should be taken on steep grades to slow run-off.
4.2 Plantings
Compost manufactured topsoil shall be spread evenly upon the prepared subgrade surface to the depth specified in plans for all planting beds.
For all woody plant material, compost manufactured topsoil shall be placed around rootball to even the base of the plants main leader with the soil grade. All compost manufactured topsoil shall be firmly dressed into place to prevent settling and provide support.
Compost manufactured topsoil used for planting beds of herbaceous plants needs to be spread and remain loose and friable for installation of plant material.
5. METHOD OF MEASUREMENT
All compost manufactured topsoil, loam and compost will be measured by the cubic yard.
SPECIFICATION
TURF ESTABLISHMENT WITH COMPOST
DESCRIPTION
The work shall consist of incorporating compost into the soil profile to improve soil quality and plant growth. This specification applies to all types of turf establishment methods including seeding, sodding and hydroseeding.
MATERIALS
Compost shall be derived from organic wastes including sawdust, clean ground wood, leaf and yard residues, and biosolids that meet all State Environmental Agency requirements. The product shall be well composted, free of viable weed seeds and contain material of a generally humus nature capable of sustaining growth of vegetation, with no materials toxic to plant growth.
Compost shall have the following properties:
Parameters Range
pH 5.5 - 8.0
Moisture content 35% - 55%
C:N ratio 15 - 30:1
Organic Matter > 40%
Particle Size < 3/4 inch
Soluble Salts < 4.0 mmhos (dS)
Bulk Density < 1200 lbs/cuyd
Foreign Matter < 1% by weight
The use of compost will reduce fertilizer requirements. The compost generator shall supply the specifier a nutrient analysis to determine these requirements. Generator shall supply documentation showing state approval for intended use.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
This specification covers the properties of AGRESOIL COMPOST® as distributed by: Agresource, 100 Main Street, Amesbury, MA 01913, telephone 800-313-3320.
TURF ESTABLISHMENT WITH COMPOST CONTINUED
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS
Incorporate uniformly one to three inches of compost within the top four to six inches of the soil profile (three to twelve cubic yards per 1000 square feet). Use a higher rate for upgrading marginal soils. Water thoroughly after seeding or sodding.
Newly seeded areas can be topdressed with a fine compost (<3/8 inch), then water.
METHOD OF MEASUREMENT
Compost will be measured by the cubic yard.
SPECIFICATION
COMPOST AS LANDSCAPE BACKFILL MIX COMPONENT
DESCRIPTION
This work shall consist of excavating a planting hole and blending compost with the excavated soil to improve soil quality and plant growth. This specification applies to all types of containerized, balled, and burlapped plant material.
MATERIALS
Compost shall be derived from organic wastes including sawdust, clean ground wood, leaf and yard residues, and biosolids that meet all State Environmental Agency requirements. The product shall be well composted, free of viable weed seeds and contain material of a generally humus nature capable of sustaining growth of vegetation, with no materials toxic to plant growth.
Compost shall have the following properties:
Parameters Range
pH 5.5 - 8.0
Moisture content 35% - 55%
C:N ratio 15 - 30:1
Organic Matter > 40%
Particle Size < 1 inch
Soluble Salts < 4.0 mmhos (dS)
Bulk Density < 1000 lbs/cuyd
Foreign Matter < 1% by weight
The use of compost will reduce fertilizer requirements. The compost generator shall supply the specifier a nutrient analysis to determine these requirements. Backfill mix for ericaceous plants shall have a pH less than 7.0.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
This specification covers the properties of AGRESOIL COMPOST® as distributed by: Agresource, 100 Main Street, Amesbury, MA 01913, telephone 800-313-3320.
LANDSCAPE BACKFILL MIX CONTINUED
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS
Uniformly mix compost with the excavated soil of the planting hole at a 1:2 ratio. Backfill and firm the soil blend around the rootball within the planting hole. Water thoroughly after planting.
METHOD OF MEASUREMENT
Compost will be measured by the cubic yard.
SPECIFICATION
COMPOST AS A LANDSCAPE MULCH
DESCRIPTION
This work shall consist of applying compost to the soil surface immediately after planting to inhibit weed growth, conserve soil moisture and reduce erosion.
MATERIALS
Compost shall be derived from organic wastes including sawdust, clean ground wood, leaf and yard residues, and biosolids that meet all State Environmental Agency requirements. The product shall be well composted, free of viable weed seeds and contain material of a generally humus nature capable of sustaining growth of vegetation, with no materials toxic to plant growth.
Compost shall have the following properties:
Parameters Range
pH 5.5 - 8.0
Moisture content 35% - 55%
C:N ratio 15 - 30:1
Particle Size < 3 inches
Soluble Salts < 4.0 mmhos (dS)
Bulk Density < 1000 lbs/cuyd
Foreign Matter < 1% by weight
Compost generator shall supply documentation showing state approval for intended use.
When using compost for mulching, specific products may be more physically and visually preferable for any given mulching bed area. Since aesthetic preferences vary, it is recommended that a sample of compost be sent to the specifier prior to field use.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
This specification covers the properties of AGRESOIL COMPOST® as distributed by: Agresource, 100 Main Street, Amesbury, MA 01913, telephone 800-313-3320.
COMPOST AS A LANDSCAPE MULCH CONTINUED
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS
Compost shall be uniformly applied to an average depth of 2-3 inches immediately after planting. Water thoroughly after application to stabilize the entire mulch layer. All foreign matter and debris larger than 2 inches shall be removed from the surface of the mulched area.
METHOD OF MEASUREMENT
Compost will be measured by the cubic yard.
SPECIFICATION
ESTABLISHMENT OF PLANTING BEDS WITH COMPOST
DESCRIPTION
This work shall consist of incorporating compost into the soil profile to improve soil quality and plant growth. This specification applies to all types of plantings, including vines, ground covers and flowering plant material.
MATERIALS
Compost shall be derived from organic wastes such as food and agricultural residues, animal manures, leaf and yard waste, and biosolids that meet all State Environmental Agency requirements. The product shall be well composted, free of viable weed seeds and contain material of a generally humus nature capable of sustaining growth of vegetation, with no materials toxic to plant growth.
Compost shall have the following properties:
Parameters Range
pH 5.5 - 8.0
Moisture content 35% - 55%
C:N ratio 15 - 30:1
Organic Matter > 40%
Particle Size < 1 inch
Soluble Salts < 3.0 mmhos (dS)
Bulk Density < 1000 lbs/cuyd
Foreign Matter < 1% by weight
Compost generator shall supply documentation showing state approval for intended use.
The use of compost will reduce fertilizer requirements. The compost generator shall supply the specifier a nutrient analysis to determine these requirements. Planting bed compost and soil mix for ericaceous plants shall have a pH less than 7.0.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
This specification covers the properties of AGRESOIL COMPOST® as distributed by: Agresource, 100 Main Street, Amesbury, MA 01913, telephone 800-313-3320.
ESTABLISHMENT OF PLANTING BEDS WITH COMPOST CONTINUED
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS
Compost shall be applied over planting bed area at an average rate of 2 - 3 inches and uniformly incorporated within 6 - 8 inches of the soil profile. Use a higher rate for upgrading marginal soils.
METHOD OF MEASUREMENT
Compost will be measured by the cubic yard.
SPECIFICATION
COMPOST AS A SOIL MULCH FOR EROSION CONTROL
DESCRIPTION
This work shall consist of applying compost to a sloped soil surface to reduce erosion for long term stabilization.
MATERIALS
Compost shall be derived from organic wastes such as food and agricultural residues, animal manures, leaf and yard waste, and biosolids that meet all State Environmental Agency requirements. The product shall be well composted, free of viable weed seeds and contain material of a generally humus nature capable of sustaining growth of vegetation, with no materials toxic to plant growth.
Compost shall have the following properties:
| Parameters | Range |
| pH | 5.5 - 8.0 |
| Moisture Content | 35% - 55% |
| C:N Ratio | 15:1 - 30:1 |
| Soluble Salts | < 4.0 mmhos (dS) |
Compost shall contain a range of particle sizes that produce a stable mat. Very coarse (>3 inches) composts should be avoided if the slope is to be landscaped or seeded.
Compost generator shall supply documentation showing state approval for intended use.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
This specification covers the properties of AGRESOIL COMPOST® as distributed by: Agresource, 100 Main Street, Amesbury, MA 01913, telephone 800-313-3320.
COMPOST USED AS SOIL MULCH FOR EROSION CONTROL CONTINUED
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS
Compact (track) the existing slope then uniformly apply compost to a minimum depth of 3 inches to slopes of up to 1:2. Compact (track) the compost layer. On highly unstable soils, use compost with additional structural materials. Follow by seeding or planting if desired.
METHOD OF MEASUREMENT
Compost will be measured by the cubic yard.
Reference Table
Raising Organic Matter Percentages:
| Percentage to Raise | Compost Inclusion Rate | |
| 1% | 8% | |
| 2% | 15% | |
| 3% | 22% | All rates based on addition |
| 4% | 27% | of AGRESOIL COMPOST to typical |
| 5% | 32% | soil weighing 2600lbs/cuyd. |
| 6% | 37% | |
| 7% | 41% | |
| 8% | 44% | |
| 9% | 47% | |
| 10% | 50% |
Coverage:
| Depth in inches | Coverage per cuyd applied | Cuyds needed to cover 10,000sqft |
| 1/4" | 1296 sqft | 8 cuyds |
| 1/2" | 648 | 16 |
| 3/4" | 486 | 21 |
| 1" | 324 | 31 |
| 2" | 162 | 62 |
| 3" | 108 | 93 |
| 6" | 54 | 186 |
Quantity of AGRESOIL COMPOST required to cover 1 acre:
1" layer .................................................. 140 cuyds
2" layer .................................................. 280 cuyds
3" layer .................................................. 420 cuyds
6" layer .................................................. 840 cuyds
· Above rates apply to Agresoil Compost with organic content over 40%. Please call to verify.
· All rates are approximate.
Agresource, Inc.
www.agresourceinc.com
800-313-3320
