What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
compost
Example
I'm going to compost these kitchen scraps to make fertilizer for my garden. [compost: verb]
Example
The compost in my garden has made my plants grow so much better. [compost: noun]
mulch
Example
I need to add some more mulch to my flower beds to keep the soil moist. [mulch: noun]
Example
She spent the afternoon mulching around her tomato plants to prevent weeds from growing. [mulching: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mulch is more commonly used than compost in everyday language. Mulch is a versatile term that covers a wide range of materials and applications, while compost is a more specific term that refers to a particular process and end product.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between compost and mulch?
Both compost and mulch are relatively informal terms that can be used in casual conversation. However, compost may be considered slightly more technical or specialized due to its association with the composting process.
