1. What is the McGill Compost Calculator?

The McGill compost calculator helps gardeners determine the right amount of compost needed for their plants based on the area to be covered and the desired depth of compost application.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple volume formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Garden area in square feet
• \( Depth \) — Desired compost depth in inches

Explanation: The calculator converts depth from inches to feet and multiplies by area to give volume in cubic feet.

3. Importance of Proper Compost Volume

Details: Using the right amount of compost ensures optimal plant growth - too little won't provide enough nutrients, while too much can lead to nutrient imbalances and water retention issues.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your garden area accurately in square feet. For most plants, 1-3 inches of compost is recommended. The calculator will convert inches to cubic feet automatically.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I measure my garden area?
A: For rectangular areas, multiply length by width. For irregular shapes, break into smaller rectangles and add them together.

Q2: What depth should I use for different plants?
A: Vegetables typically need 2-3 inches, while trees and shrubs may need 3-4 inches spread around their base.

Q3: Can I use this for raised beds?
A: Yes, use the area of the bed and the depth you want to fill with compost.

Q4: How often should I add compost?
A: Most gardens benefit from annual compost application, typically in spring or fall.

Q5: Does the type of compost affect the calculation?
A: The volume calculation remains the same, but different compost types may have different application recommendations.