Compost, organic material, organic fertilizer, are all terms that are used in gardening that are close to being the same. A scientist would probably be much more specific in describing the ingredients and effects of compost. Basically compost is a dark, rich crumbly organic fertilizer that exhibits a coarse texture. When compost is added to the soil it improves the texture and adds vital nutrients for plant food.

Compost is created by decomposing plant materials such as: leaves, manure, wood chips, grass clippings, seaweed, animal wastes, and garden refuse to name a few. Place the waste materials is a compost bin and the process of compost creation will begin. Larger materials that are cut into smaller pieces will speed up the process. Turning the compost material will also aid the speed of decomposition.