Turning yard waste into gold.Organic Composting
What is Compost?
Composting is
transformation of organic material through decomposition into a soil-like material called compost. Insects, earthworms, and bacteria help in transforming material into humus. Composting is a natural form of recycling, which continually occurs in nature.
A compost pile is actually a fast-track method of changing crude organic materials into something resembling soil, called humus. Compost making is a simple process. Done properly it becomes a natural part of your gardening or yard maintenance activities, as much so as mowing lawn. Making compost does not have to take any more effort than bagging up yard waste.
Composting is not a mysterious or complicated process. Natural recycling (composting) occurs on a continuous basis in our environment. Organic matter is broken down by microorganisms and consumed by invertebrates. The resulting nutrients are returned to soil to support plant growth.
Composting Basics
Keys to successful home composting.
Organic materials: A good mix consists of three parts "browns" (materials such as dead leaves that are high in carbon) and one part "greens" (such as fresh grass clippings and garden prunings that are high in nitrogen).
Moisture: Composting materials should feel moist but not overly soggy.
Temperature: Compost should feel warm to touch except in cold winter months.
Air: To prevent unpleasant odors that can occur when materials decompose without oxygen, compost should be turned regularly to ensure that air is reaching center of pile.
What Do You Need to Home Compost?
All you need to compost is enthusiasm, yard or food waste (except meat or dairy products), and some space. Compost piles don't need to be enclosed, although many people use a bin or similar enclosure.
