Composting
Composting
Composting is a method of converting garden trash, kitchen scraps and other organic wastes into humus, a partly decayed form of organic matter.
This helps to create a rich soil.
The idea behind composting is to let the biological action of bacteria and fungi heat the interior of the compost pile to 110 to 160 degrees fahrenheit.
This helps kill weed seeds and disease organisms.
A compost pile is built in layers with each layer being watered as it is completed.
The minimum volume a compost pile should be is around 3 feet by 3 feet by 3 feet. This would be considered an adequate size for hot fast composting.
Piles wider or taller then 5 feet do not allow enough air to reach the microorganisms at the center.
To prepare compost; organic material, microorganisms, air, water and a small amount of nitrogen are needed.
Organic material is leaves, grass clippings, coffee grinds, etc., that you are trying to decompose. Microorganism are small forms of plants and animal life, which break down the organic material.
A small amount of garden soil or manure provides sufficient microorganisms for a compost pile.
Before adding organic material to compost, it is a good idea to chop up your debris with a machete, chipper, shredder or your lawn mower.
By doing this you provide more surface area for the microorganisms to feed on and you speed up the decomposing process of your compost pile.
The nitrogen, air and water provide a favorable environment for the microorganisms to make the compost.
A small amount of manure or synthetic fertilizer can be added to the pile to supply the nitrogen needed for the breakdown process.
Dry blood is also a good source of nitrogen.
Any of these synthetic fertilizers or dry blood can be purchased in your local hardware stores, feed stores, nurseries or garden shops.
Air is the only part which can not be added in excess.
Too much nitrogen can kill microbes.
Too much moisture causes insufficient air in piles, and an undesirable biochemical reaction take place. Too dry, the breakdown process slows to a halt.
The pile should be damp as a wrung out sponge. In dry weather, water the pile every few days. In very rainy weather, cover the pile with a tarp.
Extremes of sun or rain can adversely effect the balance of air and moisture in you pile.
The air in the pile is usually used up faster than the moisture, so the material must be turned or mixed up occasionally.
Turn or mix the pile a minimum of once a week to add air to the compost pile. By doing this you will sustain high temperatures and control odor.
Materials can be turned with a pitch fork, rake or other garden tool.
The compost is ready to use when the pile no longer gives off heat or odor when opened up, and the material has turned brown and crumbly.