A fertile soil is not decreed: it is built and maintained. Even though the nature of the soil plays a determining role (clay, sandy, limestone, acidic...), it is always possible to improve it to make it more alive and productive. Composting, mulching, and organic fertiliser techniques provide the soil with everything it needs to sustainably nourish plants.
Compost, mulch, fertiliser: what’s the difference?
- Compost: the result of the decomposition of organic matter (peelings, leaves, clippings). It is a rich amendment that improves the structure and fertility of the soil.
- Mulching: a protective layer (bark, wood chips, dead leaves, dried grass clippings) placed on the surface of the soil. It limits evaporation, protects against temperature fluctuations, and nourishes the soil as it decomposes.
- Organic fertilisers: manure, guano, ground horn, dried blood… These are occasional nutrient additions that complement compost.
Why are these practices beneficial?
- Improve soil structure: more flexibility for the roots.
- Encouraging soil life: worms and microorganisms transform organic matter into fertile humus.
- Limit watering: mulching reduces evaporation.
- Protecting against weeds: a covered soil limits the germination of unwanted plants.
- Reduce the use of chemical products: a living soil regenerates naturally.
What contributions for which type of soil?
- Clay soil: lighten it with coarse sand and enrich it with well-rotted compost.
- Sandy soil: enrich it with plenty of compost and mulch to retain moisture.
- Chalky soil: compensate with regular additions of compost and organic matter.
- Acid soil: choose a mulch of pine needles or oak leaves to maintain the pH.
Home compost or composter?
- Home composting (heap or bin) allows you to recycle your green and household waste.
- The composter (industrial or communal) is faster and more hygienic, but requires regular management.
In both cases, the ideal is to obtain well-matured compost that is dark, crumbly, and smells good like earth.
In summary
Compost, mulching, and organic fertilisers transform your soil into a living, fertile, and balanced environment. By nourishing the earth, you nourish your plants, and you make your garden more resilient to droughts, diseases, and climate change.