Compost vs Mexican Beach Pebble

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.

Mexican Beach Pebble

Mexican beach pebbles are smooth, naturally tumbled stones commonly used in modern and decorative landscaping. They are prized for their uniform shape, rich color, and polished appearance.

Compost

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

Mexican Beach Pebble

• ✓ Decorative landscaping
• ✓ Garden beds
• ✓ Planters
• ✓ Water features

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

Mexican Beach Pebble

• + Very attractive appearance
• + Smooth texture
• + Long-lasting
• + Low dust

• − Expensive
• − Poor traction
• − Can shift easily

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.

Mexican Beach Pebble

Available in sizes from 1" to 3". Commonly black, charcoal, or dark gray.