To understand how compost works, we must first understand what compost is… Compost – noun 1. The product resulting from the controlled biological decomposition of organic material that has been sanitized through the generation of heat and stabilized to the point that it is beneficial to plant growth. And how is compost produced? (From the US …Read More about How Compost Works
composting
Why Compost Heats Up
There are two primary types of composting: Cold composting and hot composting. The most common form of composting most of us will see at the household or small community level will be a cold composting process that resembles what we find in nature. It is a passive system of composting where organic matter is simply …Read More about Why Compost Heats Up
The Value of Compost
Composting, especially in this day and age, just makes good sense. The practice represents a responsible way to handle waste and reduce our burden on landfills and the environment. Of course, it has a host of benefits for the garden as well. In the Lab, we focus our discussion on several of the core benefits …Read More about The Value of Compost
Composting Methods
Composting is a process that offers a variety of approaches, each having their own merits. Often, small-scale farmers and home gardeners will employ more than one method for composting waste from the kitchen, yard, and garden to minimize waste and recapture those valuable nutrients so they can be reapplied for the benefit of the next …Read More about Composting Methods
Nutrient Profiles by Compost Type
Not all compost is created equal. For example, worm compost is higher in nitrogen than mushroom compost. Understanding the nature and origin of compost is imperative to knowing where, when, and how to utilize it. This article will help you identify which type of compost might best for your needs. The control over inputs is requisite in …Read More about Nutrient Profiles by Compost Type
Smell Testing Compost
The vermiculture and composting stations were the first two learning stations to come online at our flagship Edible Learning Lab in Wyoming. I plowed through the lessons in those two curricula quickly as the hot composting and vermicomposting processes unfolded before our very eyes. The students were eager to step outside their comfort zones, to …Read More about Smell Testing Compost
The Role of Insects in the Composting Process
If you look at a sample of active compost under a microscope you will see a host of micro-organisms working diligently to break down organic matter. In fact, it’s these micro-organisms that do the majority of the work in the decomposition process. But if you look at that same sample of compost with the naked eye …Read More about The Role of Insects in the Composting Process
But really, worms?: The benefits of using worms for composting
Worms are the miracle workers of the garden and compost pile. Their relentless effort improves soil structure and efficiently recaptures nutrients that would otherwise end up in the landfill. I know what you’re think, “But really, worms?” and I get it. Worms aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think composting. In …Read More about But really, worms?: The benefits of using worms for composting
From Table to Garden
By now I’m pretty sure we’re all on board with the idea of reducing our waste, especially when it comes it food scraps. I mean, composting is so easy and provides such a better alternative to adding to the landfill it’s kind of a no-brainer, right? But finished compost takes a while and your garden …Read More about From Table to Garden
C.O.M.P.O.S.T. | Keys to a Healthy Compost
Creating and managing our compost doesn’t have to be complicated. There are a few key components to a successful and healthy hot-compost pile. An easy way to share and highlight the components of successful composting is by using the acronym C.O.M.P.O.S.T as a memory tool. Carbon:Nitrogen Ratio Carbon (browns) and Nitrogen (greens) are both critical …Read More about C.O.M.P.O.S.T. | Keys to a Healthy Compost