Oxygen is required for microbes to decompose organic wastes efficiently. Efficient decomposition occurs if aeration, moisture, particle size, and nutrient levels (nitrogen) are maintained for optimum microbial activity. Any factor that slows or halts microbial growth also impedes the composting process. Requirements for Efficient Decompositionĭecomposition of organic material in the compost pile depends on maintaining microbial activity. Composted material is much easier to handle and mix with soil than uncomposted material. The addition of composted materials also improves soil physical properties, such as tilth, infiltration, drainage and water-holding capacity. Composting breaks down organic materials into an end product that increases the availability of essential minerals, such as potassium and phosphorous, to growing plants and reduces the competition for nitrogen. This competition for nitrogen can result in nitrogen deficiency and poor plant growth. For example, if large quantities of uncomposted leaves are incorporated into the soil, microbes will compete with plants' roots for soil nitrogen during leaf decomposition. Compost also improves your soil and the plants growing in it.Īlthough in time uncomposted materials will eventually decompose, adding undecomposed materials directly to the soil without first composting may have some undesirable effects. Why Compost?Ĭomposting is the most practical and convenient way to handle your yard refuse because it is easier and cheaper than bagging or taking refuse to a dump site. The practice of applying materials such as compost, leaves, or grass clippings to the soil surface to modify soil temperature and moisture, and control weeds and soil erosion is called mulching. ![]() The process by which gardeners convert organic matter for use is called composting, and the usable material is referred to as compost. To become usable soil amendments, these materials should undergo a degree of decomposition brought about by certain bacteria and fungi (microbes). These include plant materials from their own homes and yards, such as grass clippings, scraps of vegetable materials, small twigs, and especially fall leaves. Today's gardeners should be aware of cheaper and more readily available sources of organic residues. ![]() For many years, the most popular source of organic matter for soil improvement has been well-rotted farm manure, which is now less available, especially for the urban gardener. Soils can often be improved and made more productive by simply mixing organic matter with them. This publication will tell you how to build and maintain a compost pile as well as how to use the compost in the yard and garden. Finished compost can be used as a mulch or as a soil amendment. Some cities provide composting areas as a means of disposing of grass clippings and leaves however, many homeowners find it more convenient and economical to compost these materials in their own backyards. Bans on outdoor burning and laws which will limit dumping of leaves and grass clippings into landfills make composting and mulching attractive alternatives for managing yard refuse and recycling natural materials. ![]() Landscape refuse, such as leaves, grass clippings and trimmings, accounts for up to 20 percent of the wastes being placed in landfills.
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