Compost is simply the best fertilizer.
A walk through a woodlot is a learning experience. Visitors can examine ongoing production of humus. Similar to compost, it is decomposed plant material. Each autumn deciduous trees drop leaves in the forest that covers all other material. Rain and snow facilitate further breakdown. Over the winter, freeze and thaw reduces the material further.
Compost improves soil structure by breaking up heavy clay particles. It will naturally improve drainage and increase the amount of air space, which allows oxygen into the soil for plant roots. Adding it to sandy soil increases its ability for water retention.
It fosters beneficial growth organisms that are essential for overall plant growth.
Every garden should have some form of composter, whether a designated pile, black plastic cone, or larger box system, collection of garden waste and breakdown into compost is a necessary garden activity. Composting organic household waste provides leaves space for landfill sites and a better use of that commodity.
Unfortunately, composting may have a “bad reputation” it does not deserve. Problems with the operation seem to have created deterrents some gardeners may believe to be true.
Not working When a compost pile is dry, decomposing is not taking place. Water is essential. When rotating the pile, add water. A balance of material and water will keep the moisture level just right. Water must be allowed to naturally drain away or evaporate and new added as necessary.
Pile is not decomposing throughout Often it is caused by a pile too small. It may be warm and wet in the middle, but nowhere else. Larger piles (1 cubic metre) are more effective and quicker. Keep incorporating wet with the dry and tumbling. Backyard cone composters may work best for smaller gardens.
Odour A correctly maintained composter does not smell. Make sure the pile is not too wet and is a getting enough air (oxygen) to decompose. Drainage into the ground is essential. Add dried grass, hay, or dry leaves. Rotate the pile to get much air into the wet areas. A pitchfork works best.
Insects Piles with bugs, slugs, and earthworms are normal. If those are missing the pile needs immediate attention.
Animals Decomposing plant material is not eaten by raccoons, rodents, and other wild creatures. The pile has somehow taken food scraps (bones, meat, fish, milk, or grease). Those items must be placed with regular garbage or buried in a secure (wire fence enclosure) area. That material also attracts houseflies.
Fresh material will not decompose Generally, large volumes of fresh grass clippings or other plant trimmings need to be closely monitored. Too thick a layer will start a backlog of wet material. Mix in dry leaves or grass, and rotate the pile to let as much air in as possible. That allows oxygen to aid in the decomposition.
Compost pile is warm, but not hot Nitrogen is needed to make the pile hotter. Green materials add nitrogen. Always make sure the added material is damp. Materials too wet or dry will not decompose. Grass clippings must be in thin layers.
Larger material not breaking down Whole branches must be broken into small chips if they are to be decomposed quickly. That gives a larger surface area for the decomposing microorganisms. Small twigs will take time to decompose but will eventually break down. Larger branches will make the pile awkward to rotate and really should be segregated. Christmas tree branches will add their valuable needles to the pile but the larger branches will have to be made into chips or removed.
The amount of time needed to reduce material to compost depends on a number of factors; size of the pile, types of material, amount of surface area, and the number of times the pile is turned.
Compost added to soil is the very best thing a gardener can do obtain lushness and growth. Trees, shrubs, lawns, flower beds, vegetable plots and houseplants will benefit from this natural fertilizer. It will gradually release a variety of nutrients as needed.
Ron Stevenson is a member of the Fergus Horticultural Society.
