Merritt Compost Facility

What is Compost?

• Plants love it — compost is a nutrient-rich fertilizer that helps soil retain moisture.
• More compost use means less chemical fertilizers, which run off into the water table.
• Compost is organic matter and is used as a soil amender
• Compost has live microbial activity which is critical for healthy disease resistant soil

How We Make Compost

• We use a mixture of wood chips and hog fuel and nitrogen (organic matter recovered from the City of Merritt wastewater treatment facility and manures), plus coffee grounds to start the composting process. Modern, methodical composting is a multi-step, closely monitored process with measured inputs of water, air, and carbon and nitrogen-rich materials.  The decomposition process is aided by adding water and ensuring proper aeration by regularly turning aerated bins to start decomposition for 30 days.
• The mixture is moved into “curing’ piles for another 6 to 12 months.  As the compost cures, it gets darker.

Is this Compost Safe?

• Yes, the product is safe.  We have current independent lab test results.  The compost gets retested every 3 months.
• Exceeds OMRR (Organic Matter Recycling Regulation) standards
• Approved by B.C.’s Ministry of Environment for safe reuse as a high grade product
• Is viewed as completely safe from an environmental health aspect by local Ministry of Health officials.

Is the Compost Classified as Organic?

• No, the compost is not classified as organic.

Benefits of Using Compost

• Contributes to a long term build-up of plant nutrients in the soil
• Increases water holding capacity in soil, reducing water consumption
• Weed free
• Environmentally sustainable
• Safe to use, exceeds Ministry of Environment standards for highest quality compost.
• Introduces microbial life that helps create healthy soils capable of resisting disease.

How Do I Use this Compost?

• Established Lawns: Spread 5-10 mm (.25-.4 inch) of City of Merritt Compost with a rake in late fall or early spring. Water after application. For optimum results, aerate before applying
• New Lawns: Seeding – Cover existing ground with 25-50mm (1-2 inches) of City of Merritt Compost. Rototill into a depth of 150mm (6 inches). Rake smooth and broadcast seeds as recommended. Use a roller to compact and then keep moist. Sodding – cover existing ground with 25-50mm (1-2 inches) of City of Merritt Compost. Rototill into a depth of 150mm (6 inches). Rake smooth. Install new sod and keep moist.
• Vegetable Garden: For normal soil – Mix 25mm (1 inch) of City of Merritt Compost with the top 100mm (4 inches) of existing soil. Plant seeds as recommended. For heavy clay soil – Mix 50mm (2 inches) of City of Merritt Compost with the top 150mm (6 inches) of existing soil. Plant seeds as recommended.
• Berries: Mix 25-50mm (1-2 inches) of City of Merritt Compost with the top 100-150mm (4-6 inches) of existing soil. Plant as recommended.
• Trees & Shrubs: Dig a hole approximately two times the size of the ball or bare root. Plant in a mixture of one part City of Merritt Compost and three parts soil. Compact firmly.
• Evergreens: Dig a hole allowing 30cm (1 foot) around the ball or root system. Plant in a mixture of one part City of Merritt Compost and three parts soil. Compact firmly and water.
• Flower Beds: Mix 25-50mm (1-2 inches) of City of Merritt Compost with the top 100-150mm (4-6 inches) of existing soil. Plant flowers or seeds and then water.
• Tubers and Bulbs: Prepare a mixture of one part City of Merritt Compost and three parts of existing soil. Surround bulb with a good handful of mixture and plant at recommended depth.
• Roses: Prepare ground as you would flower beds. Plant rosebush in a mixture of one part City of Merritt Compost and three parts soil.

Product Pricing

• Bulk pricing is available for quantities over 10 yards.

*REFERENCE: Bylaw 2358 Schedule L: Compost Sales Fee Schedule

Methods of Payment

• Debit
• Cash or cheque payment accepted at City Hall during normal business hours
• Wholesale and Commercial purchasers may request to set up an account