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use of compost #869611

Asked May 22, 2024, 12:42 PM EDT

I know the danger of using compost is there might be weed seeds in them. I know this is a reason NOT to use compost in above ground planters. My guess is that for ground level flowers and shurbs that old compost is best with then covering it with good dirt. Any suggestions on this subject? Also, my friend says alpaca poop is a big help to her garden and wonder thoughts on this. I know getting weed seeds unintentionally introduced is a risk.

Grand Isle County Vermont

Expert Response

Thank you for contacting the UVM Master Gardener Helpline with your question about weed seeds in compost.  

I have a couple of suggestions on how to kill weed seeds in your compost.  

If you are able to get the heat in your compost system to 140 degrees for 3 or more days, any weed seeds will be terminated.  Texas A&M Extension published an article you will find helpful entitled “Composting to Kill Weeds”:  https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/vegetable/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2010/10/E-326.-Easy-Gardening-Composting-to-Kill-Weed-Seeds.pdf

Another option is to solarize your raised bed which will also terminate the weed seeds.  Oregon State University Extension published “Soil Solarization an Alternative to Soil Fumigants”:  https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/agriculture/soil-solarization-an-alternative-to-soil-fumigants-0-505/

I also offer this “General Information for the Potential Camelid Owner” from Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service.  “Llamas and alpacas are pseudo ruminants and have three stomachs (cows, sheep and goats — all true ruminants have four).”:  https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/print-publications/vtmd/general-information-for-the-potential-camelid-owner-vtmd-9122.pdf.  I would need to seek additional advice to see how this impacts weed seed survival.

A few more articles you might find helpful: 

.  “How to Use Compost in Gardens and Landscapes” published by Oregon State University Extension https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pub/em-9308-how-use-compost-gardens-landscapes

.  “Safely Using Manure in the Garden” published by the University of Wisconsin Extension:  https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/safely-using-manure-garden/

I hope this information is helpful.  If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out.

Laura, UVM Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Replied May 27, 2024, 12:00 PM EDT

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