Essential Information
compost , the sorcerous transmutation oforganic wasteinto nutritive - rich territory , is a sustainable and rewarding practice that every gardener should squeeze . This measure - by - step guide will demystify the physical process , empower you to produce your owncompost pileand reap its countless benefits .
Understanding the Basics
Composting is thenatural processof bust downorganic affair , such as nutrient scraps , yard thriftlessness , and paper merchandise , into a fat , dark soil amendment have intercourse as compost . This process is facilitated by microorganisms that decompose the organic material , releasing essential nutrientsand amend grease structure .
Choosing a Composting Method
There are variouscomposting method , each with its own advantages and disadvantage . Here are the most common :
Step-by-Step Composting Guide
1. Gather Your Materials
hoard organic materials that are rich in carbon and atomic number 7 . atomic number 6 - rich materials ( browns ) include dry leaf , straw , and cardboard . Nitrogen - rich stuff ( greens)include food for thought food waste , grass clippings , and manure .
2. Layer the Materials
Create abalanced mixtureof brown and park in a ratio of approximately 2:1 to 3:1 . commence with a layer of browns , followed by a layer of greens . echo this process until the mass is about 3 - 4 feet grandiloquent .
3. Add Water and Aerate
Composting take wet to facilitate chemical decomposition reaction . Water the spile lightly and turn it on a regular basis using a pitchfork orcompost aeratorto provide oxygen .
4. Monitor Temperature and Moisture
Theideal temperaturefor compost is between 120 - 160 ° F . Use acompost thermometerto monitor the temperature and adjust moisture levels as require . If the pile is too dry , summate water . If it ’s too wet , add more brown .
5. Stir and Turn Regularly
Turn thecompost pileevery few days to guarantee even decomposition . This aerates the pile andprevents anaerobic conditionsthat can moderate to olfactory sensation .
6. Add Finished Compost to Your Garden
Once the compost has turned a dark brown color and has acrumbly texture , it ’s ready to practice . add together it to yourgarden soiltoimprove richness , drainage , and weewee retentivity .
Benefits of Composting
Troubleshooting Common Composting Issues
Odors:
Pests:
Slow Decomposition:
Questions You May Have
Q: How long does it take to make compost?
A : depend on the method and materials used , compost can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to get on .
Q: What materials should I avoid composting?
A : Avoid compost meat , dairy farm products , fats , petroleum , and pet waste .
Q: Can I compost diseased plants?
A : It ’s loosely not recommended tocompost diseased flora , as they canspread diseasesto other plants .
Q: How do I know when compost is ready to use?
A : Compost is ready when it has adark browned color , crumbly texture , and a dulcet , earthy flavour .
Q: What is the difference between compost and vermicompost?
A : Compost is made fromdecomposed organic matter , while vermicompost is made from decomposed organic matter by worm . Vermicompost isgenerally richerin nutrients and has a finer texture .
