Newly planted trees across NC State’s campus are getting an extra boost thanks to food scraps collected across campus.

As part of NC State’s ongoing reforestation efforts, Landscape Maintenance and Operations has started applying compost tea to newly planted trees to help them establish healthy root systems and thrive for years to come.

Compost tea is created using organic waste collected at the NC State Compost Facility and Research Cooperative. This biologically active soil amendment improves soil health by enhancing microbial diversity and nutrient cycling while reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.

The initiative is a partnership between Landscape Maintenance and Operations and Waste Reduction and Recycling, creating a circular solution that gives compost collected on campus a second life.

“Compost tea is one of the tools we’re using to help build healthier soils and support long-term tree health,” said Hattie Pastirik, campus tree operations manager. “By introducing beneficial microorganisms back into the soil, we’re working to improve the natural ecosystem around our trees, increase resilience to environmental stress, and create a more sustainable approach to landscape management across campus.” 

In addition to enriching the soil, compost tea helps improve moisture retention around young trees. Healthier soil means water stays available longer, reducing watering needs and helping trees better withstand periods of heat and drought stress during their critical establishment phase.

“Applying compost tea helps improve compacted urban soils, especially in areas where mechanical aeration isn’t practical,” said Brooke Constanza, urban forester with Campus Planning.

The initiative also demonstrates how collaboration across campus can transform organic waste into a resource that supports both sustainability and landscape management. 

“This project is a tangible example of how circular resource management can reduce waste while creating value for the campus community”, said Matt Ball, waste diversion coordinator for Waste Reduction and Recycling. “NC State’s composting program closes the loop by turning campus food waste into a beneficial product that improves soil health and supports university operations.”

As NC State continues expanding and renewing its campus tree canopy, initiatives like compost tea applications help ensure new trees can grow into the campus landscape for generations to come.