Mushroom compost can contain levels of soluble salts that can damage seedlings and salt-sensitive plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas, and blueberries, to name a few. Used with care, it is generally safe for most other things if you mix it in with the soil well. If you order mushroom compost in the fall and let it sit though the winter, it is a little safer because it has had a chance to cure a bit, thus reducing the salt content. Just remember not to store your mushroom compost pile next to your prize rhododendron!

Some municipalities have regulations about composting. Therefore, checking with your particular town before installing a composting system is a good idea. No matter what sort of composter you choose, it requires a little know-how and work to keep it from smelling like something that has been in the garbage for too long. Because of this potential for odor problems, there are actually places that do not allow composting at all, which is unfortunate. I think that composting is one of the most satisfying activities in the garden. You will actually be making something that not only feeds your plants but also improves the very structure of your soil. Before you begin to compost, you will need to consider your specific needs. Will you just be composting kitchen waste? It could be that a vermicomposter would suit your situation.

To find out about the Master Gardener program in your county, simply call your county cooperative extension office, and they should be able to help you. If you would like information online, go to http://hortweb.cas.psu.edu/extension/mg/