1. Use Mulch and Compost to Create Healthy Soil

Cover soil with 3-4 inches of mulch. Amend soil with 1" of organic compost at planting time.

Certification Requirement

Exposed soil on site is protected with a minimum of 3 inches of locally recycled, greenwaste mulch.
For new landscape construction: Compost is incorporated at an application rate of 1 inch, or 4 cubic yards per 1,000 ft². If the imported or site soil has an organic content of 6% or more, then the compost requirement is waived.

Note: Small, open, mulch-free areas are exempt from the requirement if they are designated for native bee or insect habitat.

Recommendations

• 4-6” of mulch with barrier (not synthetic landscape fabric) is recommended for sparse plantings and open areas.

• Plant material identified for removal can be chipped and used on site as mulch, on-site storage space permitting.

• Purchase compost from a producer who participates in the U.S. Composting Council’s Standard Testing Assurance (STA) program to ensure quality. A list of participating producers can be found at www.compostingcouncil.org

• Make your own compost! Check with your waste hauler to inquire about subsidized compost bin programs.

Helpful Resources

• Organic Materials Exchange: Find free and low cost mulch from tree-trimming companies and composted horse manure by entering your zip code.

• On-line Mulch Calculator: Determine how much mulch you will need to purchase by entering the square feet of landscaped area and mulch depth.

Home Advisor Guide to Composting: Resources for Home Composting

• Bay-Friendly Guide to Mulch, available at www.BayFriendly.org. Provides sources of recycled mulch, applications of mulch and information on sheet mulching.