How Much Does Compost Cost?

The cost of compost is determined by several factors, including where it is purchased from, its contents, and the method of purchase. Compost can either be purchased by the bag, or in bulk. Bulk compost can be purchased for almost half the price of bagged compost. Bagged compost prices average $500 a ton or more.

The most popular methods of selling compost are in bag, or in bulk. Compost prices for a bag can range anywhere from $10 to $20 per 40 quart bag. Bulk measurements of compost are by the cubic yard. The cost of compost by the cubic yard ranges from $35 to $60 per cubic yard. This compost cost, however, may be lowered depending on the amount that is bought. Often, companies will lower compost cost for purchases over two or three cubic yards.

Bagged Compost Prices

When sold by the bag, compost is usually sold in 40 quart quantities. Compost is sold by volume rather than weight because densities of compost can vary depending on the content of the compost, as well as how it is purchased. The cost of compost when bagged is determined by where it is purchased from, as well as the quality of the compost. Some companies compost different ingredients, for different lengths of time. This will determine how much you are paying per bag of compost. The average cost of compost is $15 per bag.

Bagged compost comes in four varieties. Yard waste compost is mainly composed of leaves and grass trimmings. It is lightweight, and typically a much cheaper form of compost because it does not contain as many nutrients as other bagged varieties. Composted manure varieties are made of the manure of either cows, horses, or even chickens, and yard clippings or sawdust. This form is dense, and full of nutrients. When purchased at a store, it has usually been treated to kill any bacteria. Mushroom compost is the leftovers of soil used to grow mushrooms. It is usually dense, and contains cow or horse manure, straw, and plant meals. It is full of nutrients. The final type of bagged compost is vermicompost, also known as worm castings. This type of compost is made from manure, yard clippings, and other decomposable trash. It is processed by red worms, and their waste becomes vermicompost. This compost is very nutrient-rich, and labels should be followed carefully. The compost prices for these bagged varieties ranges from $10 to $20, depending on the type of compost.

Where to Buy Compost

If a gardener does not have the time to wait for compost to be made, or does not want to make his or her own compost, it can be purchased. There are many places to buy compost, and the manufacture, as well as the source of the compost will determine the compost prices offered by the location. Compost can be purchased from large retailers, such as Lowe’s or Home Depot, and also at locations such as tree nurseries and farms. The price of compost may be cheaper at large retailers, however, it will be advantageous to search around for moist, nutrient-rich compost that will be able to fulfill your gardening needs.

Loam Prices

Loam is often sold by the cubic yard. Loam prices are determined by the content of the sand, silt, and clay in the soil. Loam prices are also affected by whether it is screened loam or unscreened loam. Screened loam costs higher than unscreened loam, with prices ranging from $25 to $40 per cubic yard. Unscreened loam runs from $15 to $30 per cubic yard.

Compost Bin Prices

Rather than purchasing compost from someone else, many gardeners will choose to make their own compost. When making your own compost, the compost prices are determined by the bin or tumbler that you buy. Compost tumbler prices are determined by the size of the bin, the materials the bin is made of, and the manufacturer of the tumbler. The average range of prices for compost bins is $70 to $350. Using a bin can significantly decrease compost cost, because compost can easily be made from household matter. This includes vegetable and fruit peelings, garden plant materials, grass and leaf clippings, and even soiled paper napkins.

Where to Buy Loam Soil

Loam soil can be purchased in many places. The place which you purchase loam at may affect loam prices. Home improvement retailers, such as Lowe’s and Home Depot sell loam. Loam can also be purchased from independent companies, which often sell loam, compost, and other various types of soil.