The basic ins and outs of composting C OMPOSTING
W HAT IS COMPOST Compost is a natural process in which micro- organisms and macro-organisms break down plant matter and animal manure.
W HO EATS WHAT ? Good composting is a matter of providing the proper environmental conditions for microbial life There are over a billion organisms living in just a teaspoon of compost
B ENEFITS OF COMPOST Improves soil structure & fertility Diverts waste from the landfill Keeps soil nutrients on site Saves money Can be a value added product
C OMPOST & THE SOIL Increases organic matter content Stabilizes elements such as nitrogen Improves soil structure and ability to retain water
C HALLENGES OF COMPOST Can stink if not managed properly Can attract animals Achieving necessary temperatures for pathogen/weed seed kill Feedstock mixing Limiting air, water, or food
H OW TO MAKE COMPOST Food, Water & Air Add your feedstock Use proper C:N ratio Keep moist Like a wet sponge Turn frequently
C:N R ATIOS The C:N ratio represents the weight of carbon to the weight of nitrogen. The target C:N ratio 30:1 If higher the composting process will slow down The general rule of thumb is 2-3 parts brown to 1 part green
B ROWNS : G REENS Carbon Grass clippings Garden trimmings Green leaves Livestock manure Fruit and vegetable scraps Coffee grounds and filters Tea leaves and bags Nitrogen Wood chips and sawdust Shredded yard wastes Pine and fir needles Straw and hay Dry grass and leaves Nut shells Stale bread Shredded paper
W HAT NOT TO COMPOST Animal bones Pet waste Citrus peels Oils Diseased plants Noxious weeds Chemically treated wood products Human waste
T YPES OF COMPOSTING Vermicomposting Backyard composting Windrows
C OMPOST APPLICATIONS Soil amendment Fertilizer Transplant mix Erosion control mulch Animal bedding
C OMPOSTING R ESOURCES Your local county extension office Worms Eat My Garbage by Mary Appelhof Let It Rot! by Stu Campbell