Comparison of Compost and Proprietary Soil Amendments for Vegetation EstablishmentStatus: CompleteReport Date: 04/21/2025 Summary: New research has developed guidance for MnDOT and local transportation agencies to establish roadside vegetation growth after road construction projects. These projects often damage roadside vegetation, which is important for managing stormwater, limiting erosion and improving soil stability. This project analyzed the effectiveness of adding organic and proprietary amendments to roadside topsoil to rapidly reestablish vegetation. Researchers measured the impact of these amendments on the physical, chemical and biological properties of roadside soils, along with plant biomass and coverage, to determine combinations and blends that provide the nutrients needed for rapid vegetation establishment. The project involved extensive soil and amendment analyses; greenhouse experiments, including a study that simulated the effects of rainfall; and field studies on nine experimental plots. Results provided recommended amendment application rates to balance vegetation growth with water quality considerations. The recommendations will be incorporated into guidelines to promote cost-effective implementation. Final Deliverables: Comparison of Compost and Proprietary Soil Amendments for Vegetation Establishment (Report #2025-22) Establishing Post-Construction Roadside Vegetation Growth (Research Summary) Related Materials: New Project: Comparison of Compost and Proprietary Soil Amendments for Vegetation Establishment (Blog Post) Related Research: