tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10365453308565582342024-03-13T10:33:41.373-07:00Got CompostPromoting compost uses and benefits - because healthy soil means a healthy landscape. Naturally!Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.comBlogger162125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-75329817834087893772017-06-09T12:48:00.001-07:002017-06-09T12:50:29.085-07:00The Soil and Water Connection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_LtnlmrsRUhkJNaEaVltV9M4TEhXDr4z8QaVSe0eE8VMgsRv6gNu3gd8kICF1fKJblY1nc40ny98lXrrfMLvW-aJxDf1cXkL5M7GMfNXYQ08vE08ASysi091lRxQJCjlSJk9BE_nTiw/s1600/Jim%2527s+hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_LtnlmrsRUhkJNaEaVltV9M4TEhXDr4z8QaVSe0eE8VMgsRv6gNu3gd8kICF1fKJblY1nc40ny98lXrrfMLvW-aJxDf1cXkL5M7GMfNXYQ08vE08ASysi091lRxQJCjlSJk9BE_nTiw/s320/Jim%2527s+hands.jpg" width="217" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The soil-water connection is a real one, for a healthy soil, rich in organic matter, not only has a dramatic impact on the reduction of runoff volumes, but also captures and degrades pollutants before they have an opportunity to foul ground and surface water.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">In 1997, the U.S. Composting
Council (USCC) published <em><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The
Soil and Water Connection</span></em> as an easy-to-use document that would
explain the connection of soil to water, as well as the fundamentals of
composting. In essence, it was <em><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The
Farmer’s Almanac</span></em> of the composting world. Since that time, public
opinion has steered in a positive direction and an increase in organics for
environmental applications (as well as the results) can be seen. The composting
industry has also evolved in its techniques and the various ways in which
compost can be applied. This makes now the perfect time for a second edition,
and the USCC has done just that. <em><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://compostfoundation.org/ICAW-Store" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">The Soil and
Water Connection: A Watershed Manager’s Guide to Organics</span></a></span></em> is an
updated booklet that takes the original’s message and applies it to today’s
world.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
</div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The first half of <em><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The Soil and Water Connection</span></em>
focuses on the environmental problems of soil degradation and water pollution,
the harmful effects they are having on the environment and what compost
application can do to change all that. From there its goes on to explain just
what compost is, its processes and what makes it so valuable to soil and water.
Finally, the guide describes what can be done to prevent these problems, as
well as composting’s role going forward. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> </span>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Engel & Gray and Harvest Blend
Compost are dedicated to collecting, composting, and recycling organic
materials into nutrient rich compost products, ready to build healthy soil and
plants. With nearly 25 years of experience in composting, Harvest Blend Compost
is a proud supporter of the USCC and the US Composting Council’s Research &
Education Foundation. For more info call us at <span class="baec5a81-e4d6-4674-97f3-e9220f0136c1" style="white-space: nowrap;">805-925-2771<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1036545330856558234#" style="border: currentColor; bottom: 0px; display: inline; float: none; height: 16px; left: 0px; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; position: static !important; right: 0px; top: 0px; vertical-align: middle; white-space: nowrap; width: 16px;" title="Call: 805-925-2771"><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" style="border: currentColor; bottom: 0px; display: inline; float: none; height: 16px; left: 0px; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; position: static !important; right: 0px; top: 0px; vertical-align: middle; white-space: nowrap; width: 16px;" title="Call: 805-925-2771" /></a></span> or visit <a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/">www.gotcompost.com</a> </span><br />
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Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-25011785646739318012016-12-20T16:43:00.001-08:002016-12-20T16:43:42.713-08:00I'M DREAMING OF A GREEN CHRISTMAS<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_H-wDnRRXNkJg_V6V-3vuQ9JXhajcVEdTtdtG1J0yixGVL2mV5oTRlf_WRBtIoPyGhLDWMcd0cFDRZCmM1lC-Xadoj01KIRqzmYTDYZVEaBUQLK7DsqIKXL46hwwzw1HZXmE-LiTG4uU/s1600/12+20+2016+CHRISTMAS+Recycling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_H-wDnRRXNkJg_V6V-3vuQ9JXhajcVEdTtdtG1J0yixGVL2mV5oTRlf_WRBtIoPyGhLDWMcd0cFDRZCmM1lC-Xadoj01KIRqzmYTDYZVEaBUQLK7DsqIKXL46hwwzw1HZXmE-LiTG4uU/s320/12+20+2016+CHRISTMAS+Recycling.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">The most
wonderful time of year? Maybe. Trashiest time of the year? No question.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Boxes,
Styrofoam, packaging, wrapping paper, disposable plates, cups and utensils,
bottles, cans and food waste - our trash bins overfloweth. But there are ways
we can minimize the amount of waste we produce. Mainly, remember the simple
phrase "reduce, re-use, recycle" - and they're in that order for a
reason.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Reducing what
we buy and consume will have the greatest impact on the environment. That
includes the number and type of gifts we purchase and how we acquire them, as
well as careful menu planning related to the number of actual guests expected.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Look at your
trash from a fresh point of view. Getting rid of one bag of trash this season
may seem like a small dent in light of America's mountain range of landfills,
but if every household filled one fewer bag, imagine the difference we could
make. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><strong>Meal planning</strong>:
reduce <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">before</i> eating that big meal -
greening up usually takes a little extra time and thought, but it’s well worth
the effort. Here are two options for waste reduction:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><strong>Casual option</strong>: Look
for compostable tableware and bags – they may cost a little more than the run
of the mill plastic stuff, but you’ll be “Completing the Cycle” by re-using
recycled materials. And don’t throw the compostable items in the trash. Does
your community collect food waste? If so, be sure to place your compostables in
the food waste bin. It may look like trash, but these are valuable natural
resources that can and should be recycled into compost. Note: paper plates and
cups advertised as biodegradable are made to degrade in a commercial composting
facility (read the fine print on the package). Added to a small, home compost
pile, they may take many months to degrade.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><strong>Formal option</strong>: A
meal served on china surrounded by silverware, glasses and cloth napkins will
take longer to clean up than disposable dishes and plastic ware (taking labor
to buy them, and time and fuel to drive to the store). But china and glass are
classier, and you can recruit guests to pitch in after dinner – put on your
favorite Christmas tunes and the time will fly. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><strong>Tips for a
Greener Christmas</strong>:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Designate a recycling
bin for guests to use, and asking them to bring containers for leftovers. Remember
to buy local!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">And what about
trees? Even environmentalists debate whether a live-cut or artificial tree
leaves a smaller footprint.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Live trees
provide habitat for critters, are a renewable crop, and when grown locally,
create local jobs. Making an event out of visiting a tree farm to cut a tree,
have a wagon ride and drink hot cocoa can be a pleasant family memory. Note:
don’t send your trees to the landfill – recycle ‘em! To properly prepare your
Christmas tree for recycling, make sure to remove all ornaments, tinsel, and
stands. Trees with stands and flocked trees won’t be accepted and can’t be
recycled. Trees over six feet should be cut in half. Visit </span><a href="http://www.lessismore.org/"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;">www.lessismore.org</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"> for more info on Christmas tree
recycling and scheduled pick up in your area.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">An artificial
tree re-used for 10 or 20 years would be cheaper and result in less consumption
than buying a live tree every year. However, it can't be recycled and is not
biodegradable, so when thrown out, it will be a landfill lump.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Economics can
be a challenge of going green. Green goods sometimes cost more, but on the
other hand, the prices of trash disposal, pollution and energy continue to
rise. Complete the cycle by re-using recycled materials and you’ll be helping
your community (and have a Greener Christmas.) Naturally!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">For more info:
visit </span><a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;">www.GotCompost.com</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-76801537061935279662016-06-17T16:17:00.001-07:002016-06-17T16:17:15.171-07:00Got Compost: Reducing water in the garden<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2016/06/reducing-water-in-garden.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: Reducing water in the garden</a>: We’re often asked questions about gardening and compost use, many of which concern conserving water. We hope the info below will be of int...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-83738172733779679022016-06-17T16:11:00.000-07:002016-06-17T16:11:50.733-07:00Reducing water in the garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9DuvpiWCvvaIB-TdWO7NN3YBiAGDPYMeimfebb-VJx_HUKtiItQIQM9u9M0nuUEHreeKlXHZVWbj5MF_aeXyd1fG7OEkMJYSsXuPHvA3Mj3S7J0tK9zOxPYUNh2MRm_CGTpQhP8BbtLA/s1600/8-09-12_MulchGardens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9DuvpiWCvvaIB-TdWO7NN3YBiAGDPYMeimfebb-VJx_HUKtiItQIQM9u9M0nuUEHreeKlXHZVWbj5MF_aeXyd1fG7OEkMJYSsXuPHvA3Mj3S7J0tK9zOxPYUNh2MRm_CGTpQhP8BbtLA/s320/8-09-12_MulchGardens.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We’re often asked questions about
gardening and compost use, many of which concern conserving water. We hope the info below will be of interest to some of you. If you have any questions you’d like answered, or just want to
share your gardening stories, please ‘Like’ us on Facebook and post away. We’d
love to hear from you!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Q:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
My kids want to plant a vegetable garden this summer. I’d like to get started
on this project but gardens use a lot of water. Is there anything I can do to
conserve water, hopefully not see an increase on my water bill and still enjoy
fresh, healthy veggies from our own garden?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
You bet! There are many ways to use water efficiently in your garden and significantly
reduce your use. First, you'll want to consider what vegetables you want to grow.
Peas and corn need more water, while vine plants and tomatoes require less. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Make sure to group water dependent
plants together. This way, the majority of your water is directed to the areas
that need it most, while keeping the rest dry. Your next step is to come up
with strategies to use water more efficiently. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Drip lines and raised bed gardening
are two excellent ways to conserve. Drip lines deliver water close to the base
of the plant, which allows for deeper penetration and encourages the development
of a strong and more extensive root system. They are easy to install and can
reduce your gardening water needs up to 50 percent. Growing plants in raised
beds will decrease the amount of weeds in the garden, which will draw water
away from your vegetables. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Many cities offer rebates to
residents and businesses taking part in water-wise landscape methods. Check out
the Smart Landscape Rebate Program available in Santa Barbara County. Program
requirements may vary slightly depending on your service area, so please <a href="http://www.waterwisesb.org/" target="_blank">click for water wise info</a> for your area.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Soil amended with compost is a great
way to manage soil moisture! Growing plants in garden beds containing soil that’s
been enriched with compost is another way to increase efficiency. Soil that
contains compost is able to hold significantly more water than the typical
California soil. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">STA Certified Harvest Blend Compost builds healthy
soil; adding soil organic matter; improving soil structure, increasing water
holding capacity. For more information email <a href="mailto:info@harvestblendcompost.com">info@harvestblendcompost.com</a> or visit <a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.GotCompost.com</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-80001350472999121182015-12-31T13:03:00.001-08:002015-12-31T13:03:55.122-08:00Got Compost: Protect Landscapes Against El Niño<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2015/12/protect-landscapes-against-el-nino.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: Protect Landscapes Against El Niño</a>: With the possibility of record-breaking precipitation this winter, experts say now is the time to take action by preparing yards against ...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-72880877148070333612015-12-31T13:02:00.002-08:002015-12-31T13:02:42.160-08:00Protect Landscapes Against El Niño
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With the possibility of record-breaking precipitation this
winter, experts say now is the time to take </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0EnZDD4SmlEncNYTF-z7Wgc5fnu054MMX4mR_o71RHj3Yvldp46D9IOc4WrEsKWYY4-uyS6wL5mL-lnAKcgsjIApjui0YTO-3EvdS-gXzx-YEKBY0c3mzN60ac56WVZ8nk54jqwWVHc/s1600/12+31+2015_RAIN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0EnZDD4SmlEncNYTF-z7Wgc5fnu054MMX4mR_o71RHj3Yvldp46D9IOc4WrEsKWYY4-uyS6wL5mL-lnAKcgsjIApjui0YTO-3EvdS-gXzx-YEKBY0c3mzN60ac56WVZ8nk54jqwWVHc/s320/12+31+2015_RAIN.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">action by preparing yards against
El Niño storm damage.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Heavy rainfall has the potential to cause major devastation,
run-off and even mudslides. Highly saturated soils make it hard for plants to
survive. In wet soil, it is almost impossible for roots to take up all the
oxygen that the plant needs, which causes the roots to decay. Deep roots are
the first to rot. If the condition continues shallower roots will also be
damaged. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Even plants that don't appear to be flooded may have
problems during extended wet weather. And you may not see the damage until next
summer. One of the best defenses for your winter landscape is to make
sure you have healthy, well-drained soil. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Horticulturists suggest the following tips on how to prevent
run-off and yard damage:</span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Since good drainage is
extremely important to plant health, pre-storm chores should include clearing
a place for the rain water to go - clearing weeds from the run-off ditches
in yards as well as cleaning out rain gutters and spouts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Amend compacted soil with
compost. Adding a few inches of compost to hard, dry soil will open soil,
increasing water holding capacity, improving drainage and decreasing
runoff. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Opt for six-packs of
groundcover plants as they have larger, more mature roots (beneficial on sloped
areas)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Save top-heavy plants,
such as ice plants, for flat areas since they tend to become water-logged
and uproot on hillsides during heavy rains<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">New landscaping may need
additional care during storms<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rocks can prevent run-off
by stopping pathways of rainwater<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Prune trees before storms
happen as strong rain storms can cause dead branches to fall and damage
property<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Plants that have fibrous
roots, such as California wild lilac, are ideal to plant for controlling
erosion<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hemp nets can help keep
seeds and new grass in place on hillsides during heavy rain<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Newly created slopes will
need to be covered with plastic from top to bottom as they tend to have
unstable soil</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
</ul>
Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-46240556121471690402015-07-24T16:02:00.001-07:002015-07-24T16:02:08.275-07:00Got Compost: DON'T TEAR YOUR LAWN OUT! There are easier ways to...<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2015/07/dont-tear-your-lawn-out-there-are.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: DON'T TEAR YOUR LAWN OUT! There are easier ways to...</a>: Higher temps and lack of water can cause folks to resort to drastic measures, such as tearing out lawns and gardens. But there’s no need to...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-15912966897256267842015-07-24T16:00:00.000-07:002015-07-24T16:01:22.884-07:00DON'T TEAR YOUR LAWN OUT! There are easier ways to survive this drought.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Higher temps and lack of water can cause folks to resort to drastic measures, such as tearing out </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">lawns and gardens. But there’s no need to go to that extreme.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Check out these</span> tips for saving water<u> and </u>your lawn:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXvDbh6VwR6CVBeqNKx4e6OwoBq5LLZhp4wK2SBqy42yDwEjXzMWvqjeGWjuHuRhwqRxSwf21vMZB9Efv5rhFxp6iMQcFbvHnNPB6b8pSW4ZloOoZcwtqw2v19zP8D2XH1ydctXltzo3A/s1600/07+24+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXvDbh6VwR6CVBeqNKx4e6OwoBq5LLZhp4wK2SBqy42yDwEjXzMWvqjeGWjuHuRhwqRxSwf21vMZB9Efv5rhFxp6iMQcFbvHnNPB6b8pSW4ZloOoZcwtqw2v19zP8D2XH1ydctXltzo3A/s320/07+24+15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Improve the soil<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Use compost as a mulch in shrub/flower beds to add organic matter to the soil, project the soil, insulate it from high temperatures and retain moisture. </span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Aerate and top-dress the lawn with compost to increase the ability of soil to absorb and retain moisture.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Replace water-intensive plants with drought-tolerant ones and add compost to the soil when planting to improve moisture retention.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Use compost as a mulch in shrub/flower beds to add organic matter to the soil, project the soil, insulate it from high temperatures and retain moisture. </span></li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Make your irrigation system more efficient.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Check your sprinkler timer cycles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does water run off after 20 minutes?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If so, shorten the duration of the cycle and increase the number of cycles.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If water runs off, shorten the duration of the cycle.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Install a smart controller with a moisture sensor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The system will water only when the lawn really needs it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Adjust the sprinkler heads so they spray only on the lawn, not pavement or flower beds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Replace spray heads with rotors which are more efficient.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Install separate lines for shrubs/flower beds with fewer cycles and longer duration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Install drip lines or soaker hoses for shrubs/flower beds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> For more info visit us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Harvest-Blend-Compost/255213079344" target="_blank">Facebook</a> email <a href="mailto:info@harvestblendcompost.com">info@harvestblendcompost.com</a> or call <span class="baec5a81-e4d6-4674-97f3-e9220f0136c1" style="white-space: nowrap;">(805)925-2771<a href="https://www.blogger.com/editor/static_files/blank_quirks.html#" style="border: currentColor; bottom: 0px; display: inline; float: none; height: 16px; left: 0px; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; position: static !important; right: 0px; top: 0px; vertical-align: middle; white-space: nowrap; width: 16px;" title="Call: (805)925-2771"><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" style="border: currentColor; bottom: 0px; display: inline; float: none; height: 16px; left: 0px; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; position: static !important; right: 0px; top: 0px; vertical-align: middle; white-space: nowrap; width: 16px;" title="Call: (805)925-2771" /></a></span></span></o:p></div>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-39957969746961001952014-11-21T16:56:00.001-08:002014-11-21T16:56:09.151-08:00Got Compost: Drought Conditions Call for Healthy Soil!<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2014/11/drought-conditions-call-for-healthy-soil.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: Drought Conditions Call for Healthy Soil!</a>: With persisting drought conditions and water shortages here in California, drought-tolerant landscaping is definitely the way to go. ...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-79740755626266275622014-11-21T16:55:00.001-08:002014-11-21T16:55:08.495-08:00Drought Conditions Call for Healthy Soil!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjulwHZDX8BxH2-aZIPDssnRUm1ieVX09ug5bRcl1rUyEor3vtOaJ4R0uJ5n_85mSzg7zK9-WAnc7fmtUmIGPyad_VH4MN2DPuBgzbVS6WvvbxTaOkp-6jYYTQCaXaUuXGs_hML8FVhyj8/s1600/DSC02417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjulwHZDX8BxH2-aZIPDssnRUm1ieVX09ug5bRcl1rUyEor3vtOaJ4R0uJ5n_85mSzg7zK9-WAnc7fmtUmIGPyad_VH4MN2DPuBgzbVS6WvvbxTaOkp-6jYYTQCaXaUuXGs_hML8FVhyj8/s1600/DSC02417.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">With persisting drought conditions and water shortages here
in California, drought-tolerant </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">landscaping is definitely the way to go. While
planting drought-resistant plants and water conservation are important factors,
truly drought-tolerant landscapes begin with the soil.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For plants, <a href="http://gotcompost.com/lawntopdressing.aspx" target="_blank">grass</a> and trees to be able to thrive in drought
conditions, they require nutrient-rich soil that is properly aerated and able
to disperse water efficiently. To prepare soil for a water-wise landscape, you
should first till and loosen soil roughly a foot deep. Highly compacted soil
makes it difficult for roots to spread. It also makes it harder for water to
penetrate the soil adequately before it evaporates. Important to keep in mind
is the fact that healthy soil is as important to landscapes comprised of rocks
and cacti as it is to those with lawns, shrubs and flower beds. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once the ground has been loosened the addition of <a href="http://gotcompost.com/turfestablishment.aspx" target="_blank">compost</a>,
rich in organic matter, will provide the nutrients your plants need to grow
healthy and lush even in tough conditions. Soil straight from your backyard
just won’t do the job, neither will just any compost off the shelf of your
local garden supply center. All compost is not created equal. As a result of
the variety of organic materials that go into the compost feedstock, there can
be a wide variability in the characteristics and quality of compost products.
As a result, you may ask, “How do I buy compost that meets my landscaping
needs?”</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One answer is to purchase only <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?gl=us&ll=35.021,-120.184937&ie=UTF8&msa=0&spn=1.612692,2.614746&view=map&z=9&ptab=2&hl=en&mid=zzcZSsVuIgNY.kSjQTvNL9svQ" target="_blank">compost </a>that complies with the
terms and conditions of the USCC’s Seal of Testing Assurance [STA] Program.
This will provide you with the information that you need in order to make an
informed buying decision<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ideally, you should prepare your soil and complete your
planting before the hottest and driest parts of the year. If your plants have
time to develop a healthy and deep root base before the hottest and driest
parts of the summer, they will be stronger and better able to withstand drought
conditions.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After you have prepared your soil and completed your
planting, you should then cover the ground with a thick carpet of mulch. Not
only will mulch reduce the number of weeds that will use up water and
nutrients, it will prevent the water from evaporating at ground level before it
has time to penetrate the soil.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Because almost all drought tolerant plants have a vast,
far-reaching taproot that seeks water out deep below the soil’s surface,
well-amended soil is a must when planting a drought-tolerant garden. Compost
must be added to native soil if drought-tolerant plants are to survive. Even if
you are planting a sloped area, adding 1 or 2 inches of compost to native soil
is imperative; water must soak deep into the soil where, in times of drought,
plants’ taproot systems can have access. Adding Harvest Blend Compost to your
native soil will greatly improve the texture, aeration and draining capacity,
so this should be your first priority when planting a water-wise garden. <em><u>Naturally!</u></em></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><em>For more info email </em><a href="mailto:info@harvestblendcompost.com">info@harvestblendcompost.com</a><em> </em>or call <span class="baec5a81-e4d6-4674-97f3-e9220f0136c1" style="white-space: nowrap;">(805)925-2771<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1036545330856558234#" style="border: currentColor; bottom: 0px; display: inline; float: none; height: 16px; left: 0px; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; position: static !important; right: 0px; top: 0px; vertical-align: middle; white-space: nowrap; width: 16px;" title="Call: (805)925-2771"><em><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" style="border: currentColor; bottom: 0px; display: inline; float: none; height: 16px; left: 0px; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; position: static !important; right: 0px; top: 0px; vertical-align: middle; white-space: nowrap; width: 16px;" title="Call: (805)925-2771" /></em></a></span></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-24678755978148929002014-08-22T16:32:00.001-07:002014-08-22T16:32:42.452-07:00Got Compost: OM = Organic Material, Important in Building Healt...<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2014/08/om-organic-material-important-in.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: OM = Organic Material, Important in Building Healt...</a>: If your soil and turf are healthy, you might think that the soil would be able to generate its own organic content. This is not necessaril...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-73882187709723807362014-08-22T16:30:00.000-07:002014-08-22T16:30:59.747-07:00OM = Organic Material, Important in Building Healthy Soil
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisfRH1PlU2K37ncKgRLrXghXv0QGcYXHO_x0fpY2rVXioR1cKr0l784yFJFjab6EbuteVGkd3YatU7fQS6-c6bXfD-mhCy_oLlhUS_-9vSMWwmh77SiuCEguxY0GTlPwlwY6hk-mxCqpo/s1600/Bkgrnd_House_Soil2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisfRH1PlU2K37ncKgRLrXghXv0QGcYXHO_x0fpY2rVXioR1cKr0l784yFJFjab6EbuteVGkd3YatU7fQS6-c6bXfD-mhCy_oLlhUS_-9vSMWwmh77SiuCEguxY0GTlPwlwY6hk-mxCqpo/s1600/Bkgrnd_House_Soil2.jpg" height="290" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If your soil and turf are healthy, you might think that the
soil would be able to generate its own organic content. This is not necessarily
true. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The ideal soil is open and crumbly, giving the grass roots
plenty of room to grow full and deep. When digging, you should find a large
population of earthworms and microbes; these are the good guys in your soil.
When earthworms, microbes and roots die off they decompose, raising the soils’
organic levels for new soil life. This cycle is referred to as the Soil Food
Web, where roots, earthworms, and microbes are constantly recycling themselves.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Truly healthy soil has between 3% and 5% organic material.
That level can be maintained ONLY IF organic matter is added to the soil at the
surface year in and year out. Plants, earthworms, and microbes need that extra matter
to support healthy soil. In the woods and grasslands, that added organic matter
came from dead leaves or dead grasses decomposing each year. We need to repeat that
process in our lawns to be able to maintain a healthy organic content in our
soil. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Very few residential landscapes have soil this rich with
organic material. The truth is soil beneath our lawns typically contains less
than 1% organic material. This is because over a ten or twenty year period not
only was no new organic material introduced, but the main source of these
materials such as leaves and grass clippings have been collected and transported
to local landfills. What a waste!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Healthy soil needs a steady supply of new organic material.
It’s constantly decomposing, adding nutrients for the grass and plants, and
must be replaced. Decomposed grass clippings and other organic material don’t
have much food value left, but they’re valuable in aerating the soil, storing
water and in feeding key microorganisms needed for other tasks. Leaving grass
clippings on the lawn might provide some organic material; it is not enough to
consistently provide 3 or 5 %. This is why we need to add more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>How can we add extra organic matter, you ask?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The solution is simple, and one you may not be familiar
with; top dressing. Top dressing a lawn is the process of adding a fine layer
of quality compost to your lawn. The quick & easy method involves simply
working the compost into the grass with the back of a landscaper’s rake or a
stiff broom (making sure not to smother grass with compost) and watering
thoroughly. In only a few days, you’ll notice your lawn taking on a strong,
healthy appearance; greening up where before there were patches of brown grass.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The “Professional” method is the same process with one
exception; aerate soil before adding compost. If you have an irrigation system
you’ll need to make it’s marked with flags before aeration (don’t want to poke
holes in pipes now, do we?) Then proceed as you would for the quick & easy
method, making sure to water well when finished. When you top dress your lawn
with compost, this organic material eventually begins to decompose. More
important, the earthworms seek it out and pull it down into the soil and eat
it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you don’t regularly top dress your lawn, it’s high time
to begin. It might sound like extra work, but it’ll pay off big time in
contributing to the development of healthy soil; stimulating soil life to
provide nutrients and opening soil structure so it holds air and moisture. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Harvest Blend Compost contains premium organic matter
necessary to raise soils’ organic levels to the recommended 5%. Locally
produced from quality, recycled organic materials, Harvest Blend Compost has
passed the strictest testing methods to carry the Seal of Testing Assurance
(STA) label. This means our products are free of weed seeds and pathogens,
guaranteeing product safety for your lawn and garden.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Healthy soil translates into healthier grass. Growing in soil
with 5% organic content, lawns can expand their considerable root systems, reaching
deep into the soil to tap more dependable supplies of water and nutrients. They
are more self-reliant, less dependent on us for nutrition and moisture. They do
not suffer stress. The result is fewer problems with weeds, diseases and pests.
Naturally!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For all the details on Top dressing and Harvest Blend Compost
and all its benefits, go to </span><a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.GotCompost.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
or call us at <span class="baec5a81-e4d6-4674-97f3-e9220f0136c1" style="white-space: nowrap;">805-925-2771<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1036545330856558234#" style="border: currentColor; bottom: 0px; display: inline; float: none; height: 16px; left: 0px; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; position: static !important; right: 0px; top: 0px; vertical-align: middle; white-space: nowrap; width: 16px;" title="Call: 805-925-2771"><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" style="border: currentColor; bottom: 0px; display: inline; float: none; height: 16px; left: 0px; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; position: static !important; right: 0px; top: 0px; vertical-align: middle; white-space: nowrap; width: 16px;" title="Call: 805-925-2771" /></a></span>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-15197577930644333512014-05-30T15:42:00.001-07:002014-05-30T15:42:16.653-07:00Got Compost: Keep Water Clean! Replace Lawn Pesticides with Com...<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2014/05/keep-water-clean-replace-lawn.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: Keep Water Clean! Replace Lawn Pesticides with Com...</a>: Did you know that… Santa Maria’s storm drains do not go to the City's wastewater treatment plant? When surface water flows through...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-26178285635521082152014-05-30T15:40:00.000-07:002014-05-30T15:40:19.671-07:00Keep Water Clean! Replace Lawn Pesticides with Compost<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGR4czhtroEuT_2LdNXpLWeGahU_2X-pAtUQRr295mhhnagNfcja0kErXvMVpDaQdbg_liyvDffFHvRKQzPKKKQPeeRow6gTLLPnx8tVqj6LXdrnWavRTGbeoXGTthOAj0wUe_6dX9wFo/s1600/Top+Dressing_Fam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGR4czhtroEuT_2LdNXpLWeGahU_2X-pAtUQRr295mhhnagNfcja0kErXvMVpDaQdbg_liyvDffFHvRKQzPKKKQPeeRow6gTLLPnx8tVqj6LXdrnWavRTGbeoXGTthOAj0wUe_6dX9wFo/s1600/Top+Dressing_Fam.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><em>Did you know
that…</em></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Santa Maria’s
storm drains do not go to the City's wastewater treatment plant? When surface
water flows through streets from storms, any pollutants run into storm drains.
Storm drains flow directly, without treatment, to the Santa Maria River or into
the nearest local retention basin where the water percolates back into the
groundwater. Both our river and our underlying groundwater eventually flow to
the ocean. Any pollutants found in the water, stay in the water untreated, and
causes ocean pollution affecting our beaches, our coast, and our ocean life.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">A major
contributor to the pollution problem is lawn pesticides. Think about it - if
there was a way to make your lawn lush and green without using harmful pesticides
and harsh fertilizers, wouldn’t you want to know about it? The key to a good
lawn is healthy soil. It’s the foundation of a vibrant lawn. If your soil is
dry and compacted or clay based your lawn won’t be able to get the oxygen and
nutrients it needs. Root systems need room to grow and that won’t happen in
tired, dry soil. Healthy soil contains high organic content and is teeming with
biological life, supporting the development of healthy grass that is naturally
resistant to weeds and pests. Once established, an organic lawn uses fewer
materials, such as water and fertilizers, and requires less labor for mowing
and maintenance. More importantly, your lawn will be safe for children, pets
and your local drinking water supply. Follow these tips to start transitioning
your lawn and you'll be well on your way to a lush, green, pesticide-free landscape.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><strong>Top-dressing
– what is it?</strong></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The process
of applying a layer of compost over the surface of a lawn is called Top Dressing.
Top Dressing may be applied after lawn aeration, or alone as a Quick & Easy
application. Golf courses and sports fields have always realized the value of
top dressing the turf, but this practice has only recently become popular on
home lawns. Top Dressing with Harvest Blend Compost is the most environmentally
beneficial way to a greener, healthier lawn. Naturally!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><strong>When should I
top-dress the lawn?</strong></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Spring and
fall are the best times to top-dress, but in our temperate climate there's really no wrong time to improve our turf. Lawns based on poor soil will benefit
from top dressing the soil twice each year. Lawns based on good quality soil
might not need top dressing every year but if you want a lush, green lawn then
once a year will keep it that way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Professional greens keepers regularly top dress to ensure a top quality
turf. If you want a beautiful lawn that can meet professional standards then
you should top dress your lawn annually.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><strong>What product
should I use for top-dressing?</strong></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Compost is
the ideal material for lawn top-dressing. There are 2 methods we suggest; ‘Quick
& Easy', simply spreading a thin layer of compost over lawns, and
'Professional'; aerating lawns before spreading compost. <a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/lawntopdressing.aspx" target="_blank">Instructions </a>for both
are available on our website. Harvest Blend Compost not only beautifies your
landscape, it’s environmentally responsible and benefits your landscape by:</span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div>
<ol type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Improving
soil structure, porosity and density to ensure a healthier root
environment.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Infiltrating
heavy soils thereby reducing erosion.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Increasing
water holding capacity of soil so that water is used more efficiently.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stabilizing
pH and improving the soil's ability to hold nutrients.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Supplying
valuable microbes, micro and macronutrients and organic matter to the soil
environment.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Helping to
suppress soil-borne plant pathogens.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Binding
and degrading specific pollutants – so they stay out of our water system</span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/">www.GotCompost.com</a> or email <a href="mailto:info@HarvestBlendCompost.com">info@HarvestBlendCompost.com</a> </span></div>
<ol type="1">
</ol>
Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-60324536795536350412014-03-04T16:24:00.001-08:002014-03-04T16:24:37.057-08:00Got Compost: Mulch in March to Protect Soil & Prevent Weeds<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2014/03/mulch-in-march-to-protect-soil-prevent.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: Mulch in March to Protect Soil & Prevent Weeds</a>: Don’t let recent rains fool you, California continues to experience drought conditions, negatively affecting local landscapes. A gr...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-7116733075249338642014-03-04T16:16:00.001-08:002014-03-04T16:21:48.670-08:00Mulch in March to Protect Soil & Prevent Weeds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugBYNdptoNTwnHkhwtEmWyztGOX5nPrlB0OZ1E8ZSKWARzAI0yD_ryCV4wksjno5iA0SG8upqEOjbd42rr6Ki53tAUzKnKsnSLKhsZK8sOkRKBnnlaKPbS8whSz7je9_nU_1rCroUpds/s1600/021413_SoilTrowel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugBYNdptoNTwnHkhwtEmWyztGOX5nPrlB0OZ1E8ZSKWARzAI0yD_ryCV4wksjno5iA0SG8upqEOjbd42rr6Ki53tAUzKnKsnSLKhsZK8sOkRKBnnlaKPbS8whSz7je9_nU_1rCroUpds/s1600/021413_SoilTrowel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: black;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugBYNdptoNTwnHkhwtEmWyztGOX5nPrlB0OZ1E8ZSKWARzAI0yD_ryCV4wksjno5iA0SG8upqEOjbd42rr6Ki53tAUzKnKsnSLKhsZK8sOkRKBnnlaKPbS8whSz7je9_nU_1rCroUpds/s1600/021413_SoilTrowel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
</a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugBYNdptoNTwnHkhwtEmWyztGOX5nPrlB0OZ1E8ZSKWARzAI0yD_ryCV4wksjno5iA0SG8upqEOjbd42rr6Ki53tAUzKnKsnSLKhsZK8sOkRKBnnlaKPbS8whSz7je9_nU_1rCroUpds/s1600/021413_SoilTrowel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugBYNdptoNTwnHkhwtEmWyztGOX5nPrlB0OZ1E8ZSKWARzAI0yD_ryCV4wksjno5iA0SG8upqEOjbd42rr6Ki53tAUzKnKsnSLKhsZK8sOkRKBnnlaKPbS8whSz7je9_nU_1rCroUpds/s1600/021413_SoilTrowel.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">Don’t let recent
rains fool you, California continues to experience drought conditions,
negatively affecting local landscapes. A great way to conserve water, add
nutrients and keep pesky weeds at bay is by applying mulch. This goes for every
garden site, from vegetable garden to flower bed. Mulched gardens are
healthier, contain fewer weeds and are more drought-resistant then unmulched
gardens. Bottom line - you'll spend less time watering, weeding, and fighting
pest problems.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">There are two
basic kinds of mulch: organic and inorganic. Organic mulches include formerly
living material such as chopped leaves, straw, grass clippings, compost, wood
chips, shredded bark, sawdust, pine needles, and even paper. Inorganic mulches
include gravel, stones, black plastic, and geotextiles (landscape fabrics).<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">Both types
discourage weeds, but organic mulches also improve the soil as they decompose.
Inorganic mulches don't break down and enrich the soil, but under certain
circumstances they're the mulch of choice. For example, black plastic warms the
soil and radiates heat during the night, keeping heat-loving vegetables such as
eggplant and tomatoes cozy and vigorous. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">Using Organic
Mulches<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">There are two cardinal rules for using
organic mulches to combat weeds. First, be sure to lay the mulch down on soil
that is already weeded, and second, lay down a thick enough layer to discourage
new weeds from coming up through it. It can take a 4- to 6-inch layer of mulch
to completely discourage weeds, although a 2- to 3-inch layer is usually enough
in shady spots where weeds aren't as troublesome as they are in full sun. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><o:p><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;"><b><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">Mulching with
compost </span></b><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">will definitely
enrich your soil and make your plants happy, but remember, compost is a dense
product so a little goes a long way – a 1 inch layer will do the trick. Keep
mulch about 1 inch away from crowns and stems, 6-12 inches from shrub and tree
trunks.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><o:p><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;"><b><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">Organic Mulching Mechanics - </span></b><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">Spreading organic mulch saves labor and
nurtures plants by: <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><span style="color: black;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">Preventing most weed seeds from
germinating; the few weeds that do pop through the mulch will be easy to
pull.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></li>
<span style="color: black;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">Protecting soil from temperature
changes, reducing the need to water<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></li>
<span style="color: black;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">Decomposing slowly, releasing
nutrients into the soil<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></li>
<span style="color: black;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">Encouraging earthworm activity,
improving soil tilth and nutrient content<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></li>
<span style="color: black;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">Keeping dirt from splashing on
flowers and vegetables<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></li>
<span style="color: black;">
</span></ul>
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<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">When possible buy compost and other landscape products in <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&gl=us&ptab=2&ie=UTF8&view=map&msa=0&msid=110019273164066754411.00044b6980a8eeffc68db&ll=35.021,-120.184937&spn=1.612692,2.614746&z=9&dg=feature" target="_blank"><strong>BULK</strong></a>! <a href="http://compostingcouncil.org/sta-benefits/" target="_blank"><strong>STA Certified</strong></a> Harvest Blend Compost<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-symbol-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Symbol;">Ò</span></span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> builds healthy soil. Naturally!</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="mailto:Info@HarvestBlendCompost.com" target="_blank"><strong>Click</strong></a> or <a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/contactus.aspx#" target="_blank"><strong>call</strong> </a>for more
compost info </span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><o:p><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<img height="64" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugBYNdptoNTwnHkhwtEmWyztGOX5nPrlB0OZ1E8ZSKWARzAI0yD_ryCV4wksjno5iA0SG8upqEOjbd42rr6Ki53tAUzKnKsnSLKhsZK8sOkRKBnnlaKPbS8whSz7je9_nU_1rCroUpds/s1600/021413_SoilTrowel.jpg" style="left: 550px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 122.59px;" width="96" />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5kNl7iJOD65HydZQ6Y8KRxq47lqpgwlbUEdKi6Yz1PEQLb1JGaxOU0w9YSpNPHUGcAgYB1RIOQ-YKcO1O7ZMyxxADmK-F6ppxaCu6gMLEGX036KdyuT9fz_J2pNDkAODM5xpRDGAofbM/s1600/chard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5kNl7iJOD65HydZQ6Y8KRxq47lqpgwlbUEdKi6Yz1PEQLb1JGaxOU0w9YSpNPHUGcAgYB1RIOQ-YKcO1O7ZMyxxADmK-F6ppxaCu6gMLEGX036KdyuT9fz_J2pNDkAODM5xpRDGAofbM/s320/chard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the holidays over, and some
pretty nice temps, we can’t wait to get back to ‘work’ in the garden! While
gardeners on the East Coast and in the Midwest may be busy trying to dig out of
the snow and just dreaming of spring planting while looking at seed catalogs or
online, gardeners here can still be actively enjoying their gardens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides the usual garden cleanup - leaves to
rake, pruning and dormant spraying of trees and bushes, gardeners on the
Central Coast can still enjoy planting cool season crops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many people think nothing much can be planted
in what seems to be the dead of winter, but there are a surprising number of
things that can be put in the ground this time of year besides the usual bare
root roses.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the vegetable garden, we can
plant asparagus, globe artichokes and rhubarb from roots and broccoli, cabbage
and cauliflower from transplants, if you can find them in a nursery or garden
center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately the selection of
vegetable plants available at local outlets is limited, so you might consider
starting your own transplants from seed next year or get a head start on spring
planting this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carrots, kohlrabi,
lettuce, parsley, peas, radishes and turnips can all be planted from seed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, I did say lettuce, which will tolerate
some frost and can be grown all winter long in our area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think of fresh lettuce from your own garden,
tender and sweet, not that stuff from the grocery store.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leaf lettuce is the best bet, and most
rewarding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you know that head
lettuce (aka Iceberg) was developed in the 1890's?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Iceberg became successful because its firm,
round shape and long shelf life made it good for shipping long distances – for
the first time people could have lettuce for salads the year around, not just
summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The downside is that head
lettuce just doesn't have the flavor of leaf lettuce, which tastes best when
fresh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Our </span>favorite is a Bibb variety
called Tom Thumb which produces sweet and tender miniature heads perfect an
individual salad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just add a little
dressing and enjoy!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>A word about compost -</strong></span></div>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Liberation Serif";">When planting, always add compost to your soil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is the best investment you can make in
your garden and an essential step in garden preparation. Compost adds organic
matter to your soil, increases water holding capacity, adds nutrients and
improves soil health.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are
preparing a garden bed, apply a layer of 2 to 4 inches of compost and work it
into the soil before planting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
planting bare root shrubs or trees (rose bushes, fruit trees, berries, etc.)
add compost to the soil as you refill the hole in which you are plating
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add compost and watch your garden
grow!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Liberation Serif";"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Liberation Serif";">For all the details, visit <a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Harvest Blend Compost</strong></a> or email <a href="mailto:info@harvestblendcompost.com">info@harvestblendcompost.com</a> </span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Liberation Serif"; mso-fareast-language: #00FF; mso-font-kerning: .5pt; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span> </div>
Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-10995816298960865692013-11-12T12:28:00.001-08:002013-11-12T12:28:41.301-08:00Got Compost: FALL PLANTING - IT'S NOT TOO LATE!<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2013/11/fall-planting-its-not-too-late.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: FALL PLANTING - IT'S NOT TOO LATE!</a>: Winter may be right around the corner, but that’s no reason to put your gardening tools into storage. November's cool fall eveni...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-79271910270808722882013-11-12T12:25:00.001-08:002013-11-12T12:35:45.394-08:00FALL PLANTING - IT'S NOT TOO LATE!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RLAZiVP1g8MZq3vScfp3cV46HcgdtB6p4tZL1YyeB5PVnzzrAOs3TTN2SmxqWiQIfTXRTEpldkwRhDDvMxzoKU6xOuWy9LxwdTI9cRM6E_1dFzjlXYOkfDuIGpS8t4l-KAlierwivhI/s1600/Daffodils.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RLAZiVP1g8MZq3vScfp3cV46HcgdtB6p4tZL1YyeB5PVnzzrAOs3TTN2SmxqWiQIfTXRTEpldkwRhDDvMxzoKU6xOuWy9LxwdTI9cRM6E_1dFzjlXYOkfDuIGpS8t4l-KAlierwivhI/s320/Daffodils.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Winter may be
right around the corner, but that’s no reason to put your gardening tools into
storage. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">November's
cool fall evenings and normally warm sunny days give Central Coast gardeners
one last opportunity to plant vegetables and flowers for the year. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><strong>Plant Hearty
Flowers:</strong> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Plenty of
cool-season flowers are durable enough to withstand heavy rains, near freezing
temperatures and even hot Santa Ana winds--almost anything that Mother Nature
can throw our way this month. Check local <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oldtowngarden?fref=pb&hc_location=profile_browser" target="_blank"><strong>nurseries</strong></a> for pansies, primrose,
sweet alyssum, snapdragons, California wildflowers and calendula so they will
be in full bloom in fall and winter. Flowers may last until spring.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><strong>Divide
Existing Perennials:</strong> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Divide
perennials including Shasta daisies, daffodils, callas and yarrow. To divide,
begin digging around the roots at the drip line so there is less chance of root
damage as more roots will remain intact. Replant in well-composted soil and
water generously until roots take hold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><strong>A Vegetable
Garden in November?</strong> Yep, gardeners who want fresh vegetables year-round have a
variety of cool-season vegetables to plant in November. Beets, carrots,
radishes, turnips, strawberries, celery, cabbage and broccoli can all be
planted in November and will produce vegetables one to two months after
planting. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><strong>Mulch
Gardens:</strong> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Mulch is just
as important in fall as it is in spring and summer. Spread a two-inch layer
around gardens, bushes and trees. Weeds use any amount of rain to begin to
grow. The layer of mulch keeps weeds in check. Mulch will also stop
rain-producing mud from splashing onto garden plants. A layer of Harvest Blend Compost is the perfect material to use! Make sure to keep compost a few inches away from plant stems.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><strong>Top Dress Lawns:</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">When done the right way, the technique of
“<a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/lawntopdressing.aspx" target="_blank"><strong>top-dressing</strong></a>,” or adding a thin layer of compost over lawns, can improve the
soil without harming the existing turf. Top-dressing gradually improves soil
over time. As organic matter breaks down, it filters through the existing soil
to improve texture and overall health. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">To learn more about top dressing your lawn with co</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">mpost (and other compost uses) <a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/contactus.aspx" target="_blank"><strong>email</strong></a> our friendly field reps, check out our <a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/default.aspx" target="_blank"><strong>website</strong></a> or call 805.925.2771</span></div>
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Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-19739952107765440712013-08-28T16:58:00.001-07:002013-08-28T16:58:07.323-07:00Got Compost: "KETCHUP" on the Million Tomato Campaign (pun inte...<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2013/08/ketchup-on-million-tomato-campaign-pun.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: "KETCHUP" on the Million Tomato Campaign (pun inte...</a>: Back in April we shared news of the US Composting Council’s Million Tomato Compost Campaign - a nationwide drive to boost the soil hea...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-52397932014371507962013-08-28T16:57:00.000-07:002013-08-28T16:57:27.934-07:00"KETCHUP" on the Million Tomato Campaign (pun intended)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Back in April we shared news of the US Composting Council’s Million Tomato Compost</div>
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Campaign - a nationwide drive to boost the soil health and growing power of community gardens across the country – just by adding compost to the soil.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Since then, the team from E&G and Harvest Blend has joined with 10 Central Coast community gardens; donating more than 2,500 cubic feet of premium Harvest Blend Compost, nearly 1,000 tomato seedlings (plus additional veggie transplants and gardening supplies) to this project! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Of course the main focus of the campaign was to grow fresh, healthy produce for donation to local food banks, and we’re happy to report some gardens will be harvesting soon, but there’s another side to this story. We’ve watched organic matter (in the form of compost) transform dry, compacted areas of land into nutrient rich soil; creating productive gardens that will soon be bursting with ripe, red tomatoes! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Participating in this campaign has been exciting and rewarding, and we thank all the hard working men, women and children who’ve joined together to help us reach our goal. Folks at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/US-Composting-Council/148315541877276" target="_blank"><strong>US Composting Council</strong></a> will keep us posted on ‘The Count,’ and let us know when we’ve reached <strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">ONE MILLION TOMATOES</span></strong>, so stay tuned.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><a href="mailto:Info@HarvestBlendCompost.com" target="_blank"><strong>Email</strong></a> for more info on this program, or to find out if your community garden qualifies for a compost donation.</span></div>
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Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-74599982420057842732013-07-05T17:12:00.001-07:002013-07-05T17:12:55.127-07:00Got Compost: PROTECT PLANTS FROM SUMMER HEAT - MULCH!<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2013/07/protect-plants-from-summer-heat-mulch.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: PROTECT PLANTS FROM SUMMER HEAT - MULCH!</a>: Summer has arrived on the Central Coast! We may enjoy the warm (hot!) weather but our overheated lawns and gardens need protection from s...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-17736736199691739352013-07-05T17:09:00.000-07:002013-07-05T17:09:49.898-07:00PROTECT PLANTS FROM SUMMER HEAT - MULCH!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summer has arrived on the Central Coast! We may enjoy the
warm (hot!) weather but our overheated lawns and gardens need protection from
soaring temps. In other words, it’s time to mulch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mulch is any material that protects the soil surface and
allows air and water through. Organic mulches –mulches derived from plant
materials, such as compost –not only protect the soil but add nutrients over
time while enriching overall soil composition. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mulch reduces evaporation from the soil surface, moderates
soil temperature, and insulates roots from summer heat (and winter cold). Mulch
suppresses weeds, reduces soil compaction, prevents erosion, and adds organic
matter to the soil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Summer mulch -</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Apply 2-3” of compost around plants at
midsummer to protect plants from hot weather and reduce the soil temperature by
10°F or more. Soil temperatures greater than 85°F can slow plant growth. The
temperature of soil under mulch changes much more slowly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mulch protects bare soil from being compacted over time by
the drying of soil particles in the sun and the beating of rain or irrigation.
A thin layer of mulch will protect soil microorganisms and other beneficial
soil borne organisms from cooking in the summer heat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Almost all plants benefit from the protection of mulch.
Vegetables that most benefit from summer mulching are eggplants, tomatoes,
cauliflower, celery, potatoes, currants, and gooseberries. These crops
especially appreciate cool, loose, well-drained soil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Applying mulch -</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two cubic feet of compost mulch can cover an
area of 8 square feet to 3 inches deep; one cubic yard of compost mulch covers
an area of 108 square feet to 3 inches deep. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mulch should be applied loosely and not compacted. Mulch
should be kept back a few inches from the stems or crowns of plants and trunks
of trees. If placed too closely, mulch can retain moisture and cause plant
stems and trunks to rot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Water can be delivered to plant roots through mulch into the
soil. Drips systems set under mulch will more directly apply water to the root
zone. Mulch can control insects and diseases, reducing or eliminating the
spread of fungal spores often spread by the splashing of irrigation water or
rain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For more info visit <a href="http://www.gotcompost.com/" target="_blank">GotCompost.com </a></span></div>
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Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1036545330856558234.post-49159372764203625482013-06-21T15:36:00.001-07:002013-06-21T15:36:44.542-07:00Got Compost: Here Comes the Sun!<a href="http://gotcompost.blogspot.com/2013/06/here-comes-sun.html?spref=bl">Got Compost: Here Comes the Sun!</a>: It’s June 21, summer solstice! The first day of summer and the longest day of the year! In sunny California, we should enjoy balmy t...Got Composthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07414095210731975482noreply@blogger.com0