Compost vs Marble Chips

Compost

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.

Marble Chips

Marble chips are decorative, angular stones made from crushed marble. Their bright white color reflects heat and adds contrast in landscape designs.

Compost

• ✓ Soil amendment
• ✓ Garden beds
• ✓ Lawn top-dressing
• ✓ Raised beds
• ✓ Tree and shrub planting
• ✓ Seed starting mix

Marble Chips

• ✓ Landscaping beds
• ✓ Garden borders
• ✓ Decorative ground cover

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

Marble Chips

• + Bright appearance
• + Reflects sunlight
• + Long-lasting

• − Can discolor over time
• − Poor compaction
• − Glare in full sun

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.

Marble Chips

Commonly available in 1/2"–1" sizes. Bright white to off-white.