ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the use of compost to enhance plant growth. The predominant use of compost has traditionally been in horticulture and agriculture to improve soil conditions and thereby enhance plant growth. However, another important function for compost is to improve soil physical conditions in order to reduce runoff and erosion, thereby reducing non-point source pollution. Utilization of compost depends on product quality and consistency. The parameters of concern vary depending on the compost feedstock source and the intended use. Two important characteristics of the compost that must be considered are stability and soluble salts. The effect of compost products on soil physical properties changes little with the different feedstocks, assuming the compost reaches the same level of stability. The presence of glass shards in municipal solid waste compost poses a concern to the user's safety. It is important for the compost industry to maintain high standards for compost quality.
