Compost vs Crushed Stone
Side-by-side comparison of Compost and Crushed Stone to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Decomposed organic matter used as a soil amendment to improve soil structure, fertility, and water retention. Quality compost is dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling. It adds beneficial microorganisms and nutrients that support healthy plant growth and improve poor soils.
Angular, mechanically crushed rock available in various sizes. Excellent for compaction and stability. Crushed stone is the workhorse of the aggregate industry, used in everything from road construction to residential driveways.
Common Uses
Compost
- ✓ Soil amendment
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Lawn top-dressing
- ✓ Raised beds
- ✓ Tree and shrub planting
- ✓ Seed starting mix
Crushed Stone
- ✓ Driveways
- ✓ Road base
- ✓ Foundations
- ✓ Retaining wall backfill
- ✓ French drains
- ✓ Concrete aggregate
Pros & Cons
Compost
- + Dramatically improves soil structure and fertility
- + Increases water retention in sandy soils
- + Improves drainage in clay soils
- + Adds beneficial microorganisms
- + Reduces need for chemical fertilizers
- − Quality and composition vary widely between sources
- − Can be odorous when fresh
- − May contain weed seeds if not fully composted
- − Too rich for direct planting — must be mixed with soil
- − Settles significantly after application
Crushed Stone
- + Compacts firmly for stable surfaces
- + Excellent load-bearing capacity
- + Interlocking shape prevents shifting
- + Widely available and affordable
- + Multiple size options
- − Angular edges are uncomfortable underfoot
- − Dusty when dry
- − Not as decorative as rounded gravel
- − Can be sharp on bare feet
- − May need periodic top-dressing
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Compost | Crushed Stone |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $15 – $40 | $20 – $40 |
| Per cubic yard | $20 – $50 | $25 – $55 |
Sizes & Colors
Compost
Fine, crumbly texture when fully decomposed. Dark brown to black color. Should smell earthy, not sour or ammonia-like. Screened compost has been filtered to remove large uncomposted pieces. Mushroom compost is a byproduct of mushroom farming and is particularly nutrient-rich.
Crushed Stone
Crushed stone is available in sizes from stone dust (fine) up to 4 inches. Common grades include #8 (3/8"), #57 (3/4"–1"), #3 (1"–2"), and #1 (2"–4"). Colors depend on the source rock — typically gray, blue-gray, or tan.
Published February 11, 2026
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