Compost first and foremost the way to go

There’s no question that good quality compost is usually the best choice. The problem is finding a good quality compost and using it appropriately. Good quality composts are expensive.

There are potential problems with compost. These include unwanted salts that can come with the compost; its potential problem with food safety issues such as E. coli and other microorganisms that accompany the use of manures; the development of some insect problems such as fungus gnats and grubs; and potential weed problems if the compost was not handled properly.

High-quality agricultural fertilizers can be a big help in our landscapes. They can be applied to the soil and usually to the foliage. They can supplement a good fertilizer program whether you use compost or not. I will talk more about this on my blog.

Bob Morris is a professor emeritus in horticulture with the University of Nevada and can be reached at extremehort@aol.com. Visit his blog at

xtremehorticulture.blogspot.com.