
PRODUCT USE RECOMMENDATIONS
San Pasqual Valley Soils’ composts and mulches are excellent for a wide variety of applications. The volume you’ll need to apply depends on the application, existing soil condition, aesthetics desired, and type of product you decide to use. We have general recommendations on our Products page.
So why should you use compost and mulch?
First of all, compost and mulch use will reduce water evaporation and help conserve water which is so important to all of us living in San Diego County. Conserving water also means saving money!
Second, compost and mulch helps insulate plant root’s from extreme heat and cold which reduces stress and extends the life of your plants.
Third, compost and mulch provides your plants with nutrients as they break down and allows plants to access and retain water.
In a nutshell, compost and mulch use provides additional nutrients and support plants need to be healthy. And it just looks good!

Give us a call to discuss your particular application and we can help you choose what product and volume is best. If you already know what product you’d like to purchase, click on our Calculator below to find out how much you need.
Here’s a quick reference guide based on common uses and application rates of San Pasqual Valley Soils’ extensive product line:
Mulch – General Recommendations
Water Conservation – Incorporate Planters Blend 1/4″ under trees and shrubs followed by 2 to 3″ of Grower’s or California Native Mulch®.
Weed Control – Spread Grower’s Mulch or California Native Mulch® 2 to 3″ thick.
Erosion Control – Spread Grower’s Mulch or California Native Mulch® to a depth of 4.”
Compost – General Recommendations
New Plantings – Incorporate 30% Planter’s Blend compost into the top 8-12″ of existing soil.
Native Plants – Incorporate 10% Planter’s Blend compost into the top 8-12″ of existing soil.
New Turf – Spread Valley’s Best Compost® 2 to 3″ thick and till into top 8-12″ of soil (if using seed, top dress with an additional 1/4″).
Turf Renovation – Top dress turf with Valley’s Best Compost® at 1/8″ to 3/16.”
Planting Beds – Blend 25% Planters Blend with 5% Valley’s Best Compost® and incorporate well into existing soil.
For a more detailed guide on use of our products in raised garden beds, planter boxes, hydroseeding, and filling in low spots and raising grades, see this chart.
For a more detailed guide on use of our products for new trees and shrub planting, ground cover, reseeding lawns, detaching lawns and new turf establishment, see this chart.