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 In the past,
landscape architects have requested product bids from
suppliers/manufacturers, which included soil amendments that were based
on a wide range of specifications/analytical data. Determining
the right specification has always been a major dilemma for
landscape architects/designers. The actual product and quantity
delivered were often in question and hard to verify.
The landscaping industry has long needed a system for classifying soil
amendments – some way for landscape architects to determine the best
product and quantity required for the specific applications on their
project. Let’s face it…the wrong product or wrong application can be
very costly to the project and result in poor performance of expensive
plants, grasses and trees.
A1 Organics felt it was time to develop a classification system for
compost – one which takes into account a number of different parameters
and requirements which must be met. By utilizing a compost
classification system and standardizing the industry, everyone benefits
in the process. Landscape architects will ask for and receive the right
compost to make the project a success in the long term by simply
identifying the Class (I, II, III, IV) of product needed for the
specific application within their project. The landscape contractor
will know exactly what kind of compost they need to obtain for the
project and can verify its integrity and the volumes delivered to the
project. And, finally, the producer is held accountable for their
compost by substantiating its quality and classification according to
three important areas of evaluation: analytical, manufacturing
criteria, and product application/risk.
The Classification System
The current Classification
System is divided into 4 classes:
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CLASS I
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Fully composted, stabilized
and mature product that is generally made from non-manure feedstocks.
Will germinate and sustain plants without much risk due to
over-application or poor incorporation. May be lower in total nutrient
values - kind of your "goof proof" product. |
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CLASS II
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Fully composted, stabilized
and mature product that is generally made from manure based feedstocks
(dairy, poultry, equestrian, etc.). Proper application quantity and
incorporation is important to plant germination and sustainability.
Normally has increased level of nutrients and can be used to supplement
fertilizer needs. |
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CLASS III
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Partially composted or
dehydrated product. May be "shredded" or screened but is not mature or
stable. |
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CLASS IV
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Represents raw feedstock
materials, such as manure. |
CHOOSING THE RIGHT
CLASS OF PRODUCT INVOLVES 4 BASIC STEPS:
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Decide
what application you will be using the compost for.
Soil amendment for sod? Soil amendment for sensitive planting area?
Etc.
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Decide
what quantity do you want to apply. Do I need to
add a lot of organic matter? Do I need a lot of nutrients added? How
"good" is my soil overall?
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Determine
the "risk factor" you are willing to accept: Can I
properly incorporate the material? Is the slope too steep to allow
thorough incorporation?
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Choose
a classification that best meets your overall objective.
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EXAMPLE #1:
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I want to install sod on
existing soil, but need to amend it. The soil is not heavy in clay, but
is not "good" soil. I would like to apply at least 3 CY per 1000 sq.
ft, but would prefer a little more. I have a heavy rototiller, the area
is flat, and I can incorporate it at least 6" deep.
CLASSIFICATION
CHOICE: Class II product applied at 4 CY / 1000, and
incorporate thoroughly.
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EXAMPLE #2:
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I want to amend a
hillside for seed application. Incorporation may be difficult.
CLASSIFICATION
CHOICE: Class I product applied at desired quantity and
incorporated as best as possible.
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Classification System
Documents
The following documents can be
viewed and printed for reference purposes. These documents are
presented in PDF format. If you don't have the FREE Adobe Acrobat
Reader, download
it from the Adobe website.
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