Chapter 6: Putting Compost to Use

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Chapter 6: Putting Compost to Use"

Transcription

1 Chapter 6: Putting Compost to Use Composters experience many benefits in the early stages of composting from the satisfaction of diverting numerous materials from the waste stream to the excitement of finding beneficial organisms in a pile. For many, the ultimate reward comes at the end of the process when dark, rich compost is added to a garden or yard resulting in vibrant and vigorous plant growth. Since soil health is the foundation for all plant life, the addition of compost yields impressive outcomes. Compost improves multiple aspects of soil structure, chemistry, and biology and fortifies healthy, sustainable systems in gardens, lawns, farms, and other landscapes. Specific Benefits of Compost-Amended Soil By adding organic matter, compost improves the physical structure of soil, allowing root systems to fully develop, as well as increasing air exchange and oxygen availability necessary for healthy root structures. The strengthened physical structure of compost-amended soil and the increased germination rate it provides help to stabilize slopes and minimize erosion. Compost improves drainage when incorporated into heavy clay or silt soils. Compost ensures that plant-appropriate water retention is achieved in a range of soils and, in particular, increases plant-available water by retaining moisture in the root zone. Compost helps capture and hold nutrients in the root zone, whereas many of the nutrients provided by the application of synthetic fertilizers are often leached out of the soil with watering or rain. Plants benefit from both macro- and micro-nutrients present in compost. Soil ph is balanced by compost. Compost improves the cation exchange capacity of soil, helping it bind nutrients and making them more available to plants. The microbial community in compost provides a slow release of nutrients into the soil and to plants. Compost-amended soil will hold supplemental macronutrients, increasing their availability to plants over a longer period of time and creating sustained, steady growth. Soil amended with compost provides a habitat for a diverse population of beneficial soil organisms from nitrogen-fixing bacteria to mycorrhizal fungi and earthworms that contribute to sustained soil health. Rich, biologically-active soil encourages vigorous plant growth and overall plant health, reducing impacts of and susceptibility to disease, pests, and damage from drought and freezing temperatures.

2 Benefits of Vermicompost Vermicompost tends to contain higher plant-available nitrogen, greater microbial activity, and more nutrients overall than traditional composts. This results in even greater impacts on plant growth and vigor. Ideally, both types of compost are used to achieve the broadest range of benefits. For example, in soil amended with both composts, the traditional compost may provide more of the structural improvements to the soil, while vermicompost contributes greater quantities of nitrogen for plants. The C:N ratio, available nutrient levels, and other factors can vary significantly depending on the composting method, materials, containment method, and curing process. The effects of vermicompost on plant growth and disease and pest resistance is a growing topic of research, and it is expected that more detailed evidence of the benefits of vermicomposting will be emerging in the near future. Deciding to Harvest Compost An important step in the composting process is deciding when it s ready to be harvested. This is particularly important for those anxiously waiting to use the rich soil amendment in their garden, yard, pots, or orchard. For traditional backyard composting, the timeline from starting a pile to plant-ready compost ranges from about 3 months to 1 year, depending on many factors. If optimal conditions are maintained, the pile is turned often, and no new materials are added, a backyard composter may obtain finished compost in 2 months. However, these conditions are typically difficult to achieve in a backyard composting scenario. Similar factors influence the rate of decomposition in vermicomposting, with harvestable compost available at around 3 months if no new bedding material (carbon sources like shredded paper, napkins, etc.) have been added in the last 2 months. Traditional Backyard Compost: Steps to Harvesting 1. Stop adding new materials (store or divert these to another compost pile or worm bin) 2. Monitor and maintain moisture and aeration levels 3. Determine when compost is ready for curing (more on that in the following section) 4. Cure compost for 3-4 weeks (or more) 5. Decide to sift compost or not depending on level of coarseness and intended use 6. Collect compost and use Refer to Chapter 3 on vermicomposting for information about the different options for harvesting vermicompost. Depending on the method chosen, you may only feed one part of the bin, add food and bedding to the next bin layer, or only add foods they will consume quickly. Determining When Compost is Done As the composting process progresses, the original materials will become increasingly unrecognizable, transforming into a dark, crumbly material that has a pleasant, earthy smell. There are a number of signals that collectively indicate a compost pile is ready to enter the curing phase. Factors to look for in finished compost: Consistent, dark brown color Consistent, crumbly texture. Larger woody pieces may still be present, but most materials are no longer recognizable. Earthy smell throughout the pile. To test this carefully, place a sample of the compost in a zip-top bag and seal it for several hours. Then open the bag to see if any of the trapped air contains gases that

3 indicate instability. If the trapped air smells like rotting matter, the decomposition process needs more time. If the air still smells earthy, the compost is ready to be cured. The temperature in the core of the pile is within a few degrees of the ambient temperature. If you turn the pile, there is no longer the large spike in temperature that was witnessed after earlier turnings. Once your compost demonstrates most or all of these qualities, it is ready to enter the curing phase. Curing Compost Curing simply refers to a period of rest in which the compost becomes more stable as the heat dissipates and the biological population changes. The rate of decomposition slows but does continue. Azobacteria balance the carbon-nitrogen ratio and convert the nitrogen to a form accessible by plants. Additionally, the presence of compounds harmful to plants like ammonia and phytotoxins are greatly reduced. Uncured, immature compost can reduce the amount of nitrogen available to plants as microorganisms use it while continuing to break down material. This can result in stunted plant growth, and, in some cases, weakened plants may die. Curing is an important part of the composting process because it ensures that the compost is safe for immediate use on plants and that it will confer maximum benefits. To cure compost, you may let it sit in its original pile or bin or move it to a new location or container. The curing compost should still have access to oxygen to keep aerobic organisms active. Some experts recommend keeping the pile covered to prevent the excessive loss of nitrogen as gas into the air and the loss of other nutrients as water flows through the pile. Curing may take 3 weeks or more, depending on the initial make-up and stability of the compost. Applying Compost Now for the fun part! There are several options for applying finished compost, depending on the qualities of the compost and the qualities of the soil and plants where it is to be added. As a general guideline, about 20% compost (by volume) works well for a wide range of soils and plants. Some plants do well in higher volumes of compost (think of the tomatoes, squashes, etc. that sprout up in 100% compost), while others particularly those that thrive in quite poor native soils do not require such rich growing medium. As in the rest of the composting process, experimentation is encouraged! Following are some suggested uses for compost as well as application guidelines: Garden soil Dig 1-4 in. of compost into the top 6-8 in. of soil. If starting seeds or young plants, be sure you are using a mature, cured compost. The upper ranges (3-4 inches) of compost application are recommended for poor or newly reclaimed soils, while the lower ranges (1-2 inches) are recommended for soils that are in relatively good condition for planting. However, regular application of compost is recommended for garden soils (at least once per year) since plants are using nutrients. Some plants are considered heavy feeders which may require more compost support. These include tomatoes, squashes, and corn, among others. Potting mixes Compost is an important component in potting or seed-starting mixes. Use 20-30% compost by volume. If growing from seeds or planting immature starts, use cured and sifted (finely-textured) compost. Container-grown plants can also get a boost by top dressing with compost. Apply a thin layer of compost to the top of the soil and water in.

4 Backfill for trees and shrubs Grass Compost as mulch Compost tea Use 20% by volume, blending thoroughly into the backfill mix. Till 1-2 in. of compost into the top 6-8 in. prior to planting grass or laying sod. Finely screened compost can also be broadcast evenly over established turf to improve the microbial population of the soil beneath. It will also provide organic matter and micronutrients and can improve the moisture-holding capacity of the area. Instead of incorporating compost into the soil, it can also be used as a mulch on top of soil. A good use of unsifted compost that still contains some larger woody pieces is to use it as mulch around established trees and shrubs. Larger, deeper-rooted plants will not be impacted significantly by any further decomposition of the carbon-rich pieces, but will appreciate the nutrient and microbial boost and water retention properties of the compost. Finer compost can be used to mulch around smaller or less-established flowers, fruits, and vegetables. Both traditional compost and vermicompost can be used to make compost tea by a portion of finished compost in a sock, nylon foot, or cotton bag and soaking it for a few hours in water. The compost-infused liquid can then be applied as a foliar spray or soil drench. More information about the benefits and best practices for making and applying compost tea will be covered in class. More on Mulching Mulching enhances the health of soil and plants. It helps moderate soil temperature, hold moisture, slow erosion, and adds nutrients as the mulch slowly breaks down. Mulching also inhibits weeds that can steal nutrients and water from more desirable plants. Some of the benefits of mulching with organic matter: Moderate soil temperature, protecting roots from extremes of cold in the winter and heat in the summer. Slow evaporation of moisture from the soil. Improve beneficial microbial population in the soil. Prevent excessive weed growth. Help control erosion. Enhance the aesthetic value of landscaped areas. Can be made inexpensively from materials generated at home, such as grass, leaves, and ground brush. Sometimes the terms mulch and compost are used interchangeably, but they are really two separate, but complementary, materials and processes. Mulch and mulching can occur in nature, and do all the time. Sweep a forest floor with your hand and you ll find a layer of decomposed leaves and plants, black, moist, and bounding with microbial and macrobial life. This is nature s mulching process at its finest. Composting, on the

5 other hand, is when we pile up organic material and manipulate conditions in an attempt to create optimum conditions for microbes (preferably aerobic ones) to convert the material into a useable soil amendment. Compost can be used as mulch and often is with great success. But common mulches, such as woodchips and ground brush do not work well mixed into soil because the large pieces of woody material can draw nitrogen away from plant roots as the pieces decompose. Amending soil and mulching serve two different functions, and creating materials for each involves two different processes. Mulch materials made from brush or bark are simply ground to size, and while some types of mulch may be semi-composted, a good soil amendment is typically composted and cured to a point where it s stable and mature. Compost may be applied as mulch on the surface, or incorporated into the soil. Mulch is always applied on the surface. Following is a list of some of the many materials suitable for use as mulch: Leaves Compost Grass Best semi-composted or shredded first. Shredding can be achieved by running them over with the lawnmower. Good mulch for flowers and vegetables. Weeds may germinate in this mulch, but it holds excellent benefits for the soil. Excellent mulch for flower and vegetable beds. Straw Commonly used in fruit and vegetable gardens. An excellent way to utilize straw that has gotten wet or has already seen one use. Woodchips/ ground brush Often can be acquired for free from tree services. Due to high carbon content and potential nitrogen draw from soil, best used for stronger, larger, well-established plants such as shrubs and trees. Black plastic and gravel may fall into the category of mulches, but organic mulches are preferred. Composting, in conjunction with mulching and other green practices like cover cropping, integrated pest management, and intercropping, allows us to create vibrant and sustainable landscapes that best support human and non-human life.

Composting Made Simple

Composting Made Simple Composting Made Simple WHAT IS COMPOSTING? Composting is the natural decomposition of plant remains and other once-living materials to make an earthy, dark, crumbly substance called compost, that is excellent

More information

Small Scale Composting. Sejal Lanterman Cooperative Extension Educator

Small Scale Composting. Sejal Lanterman Cooperative Extension Educator Small Scale Composting Sejal Lanterman Cooperative Extension Educator TOPICS WE WILL EXPLORE Compost defined Importance of Composting Compost Rate Feedstocks Undesirable Feedstocks Manure & Food Safety

More information

Composting: the rotten truth

Composting: the rotten truth Composting: the rotten truth Composting Composting is the transformation of organic material (plant matter) through decomposition into a soil-like material called compost or Humus. Invertebrates (insects

More information

Compost Applications to Sports Fields

Compost Applications to Sports Fields www.stma.org Compost Applications to Compost is a product resulting from controlled biological decomposition of organic material that has been sanitized through the generation of heat and stabilized to

More information

Backyard Composting Guide

Backyard Composting Guide Backyard Composting Guide Help grow your garden and your business. Composting is nature s way of recycling organic waste by breaking material down naturally, mimicking the earth s natural processes. By

More information

Compost Made Easy. An introduction to home composting. Jamie Schwartz, Operations Supervisor City of Lawrence, Solid Waste Division

Compost Made Easy. An introduction to home composting. Jamie Schwartz, Operations Supervisor City of Lawrence, Solid Waste Division Compost Made Easy An introduction to home composting Jamie Schwartz, Operations Supervisor City of Lawrence, Solid Waste Division What is Compost? Compost is the product resulting from the controlled biological

More information

Denton County Master Gardener Association

Denton County Master Gardener Association Denton County Master Gardener Association The Denton County Master Gardener Association is a volunteer organization under the guidance of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Our mission is to provide

More information

Compost Workshop A. Post

Compost Workshop A. Post COMPOSTING WORKSHOP Florida-Friendly Landscaping Principles Right Plant, Right Place Water Efficiently Fertilize Appropriately Mulch Attract Wildlife Manage Yard Pests Responsibly Recycle Yard Waste Reduce

More information

A Guide for Backyard Composting

A Guide for Backyard Composting COMPOSTING MADE EASY A Guide for Backyard Composting Composting is an easy, natural, inexpensive way to turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into a nutrient-rich food for your garden or lawn. There are many

More information

Adding Materials. Speeding up the Compost Process

Adding Materials. Speeding up the Compost Process Composting Problems If your compost pile is smelly and wet, chances are it has an overabundance of anaerobic microbes. They are doing a great job of breaking down the organic material, but at the same

More information

Master Composter COMPOST FOOD. Who Does the Work. Basics of Composting. How is Compost Made. Needs for the Composting Process

Master Composter COMPOST FOOD. Who Does the Work. Basics of Composting. How is Compost Made. Needs for the Composting Process Basics of Composting Master Composter April 27, 2013 Joe Van Rossum UW Extension - Recycling Specialist Why Compost Waste Management Yard waste banned from landfills Responsibility for your waste Reduces

More information

COMPOST A USER'S GUIDE TO. The Beauty of Your Lawn & Garden Blossoms from the Soil

COMPOST A USER'S GUIDE TO. The Beauty of Your Lawn & Garden Blossoms from the Soil A USER'S GUIDE TO COMPOST The Beauty of Your Lawn & Garden Blossoms from the Soil Revised 2009 Compost adds organic material and nutrients to the soil, increases water-holding capacity and biological activity,

More information

Backyard Composting The Basics. Mimi Cooper Centre Region Council of Governments

Backyard Composting The Basics. Mimi Cooper Centre Region Council of Governments Backyard Composting The Basics Mimi Cooper Centre Region Council of Governments What is Composting? Using the natural process of decay to change organic wastes into a valuable humus-like material called

More information

Backyard Composting. Granville Garden Club 7/11/2018

Backyard Composting. Granville Garden Club 7/11/2018 Backyard Composting Granville Garden Club 7/11/2018 Compost vs Mulch Compost is full of nutrients that we want to get down in the soil to feed the plants through their roots. Mulch is the layer of organic

More information

Composting and Good Soils: A Gardener s Best Tools

Composting and Good Soils: A Gardener s Best Tools Composting and Good Soils: A Gardener s Best Tools The Importance of Cycles Back to the Basics: Elements (Atoms Molecules Everything!) Chemistry is all around (and in) us! Healthy Soils: The basis for

More information

Compost Quality Best Management Practices. Athena Lee Bradley Northeast Recycling Council, Inc.

Compost Quality Best Management Practices. Athena Lee Bradley Northeast Recycling Council, Inc. Compost Quality Best Management Practices Athena Lee Bradley What is Compost? Value-added product: converts waste material to easy-to-handle, useful product. Soil-like material, rich in organic matter

More information

Solid Wastes. Solid Wastes. Composting. Composting ABIOTIC. BIOTIC matter continuously cycles through ecosystems

Solid Wastes. Solid Wastes. Composting. Composting ABIOTIC. BIOTIC matter continuously cycles through ecosystems Solid Wastes can be thought of the oldest and most natural form of recycling Matter in Ecosystems ABIOTIC BIOTIC matter continuously cycles through ecosystems is the managed decomposition of organic wastes

More information

Yard Waste Recycling

Yard Waste Recycling Slide 1 Yard Waste Recycling And Composting Yard Waste Recycling and Composting Slide 2 Why recycle yard waste? Yard waste makes up between 10 and 15 percent of all waste going to landfills. Doesn t break

More information

Compost Happens. Pam Brown, Garden Coach Pampered Gardeners, LLC pamperedgardeners.com

Compost Happens. Pam Brown, Garden Coach Pampered Gardeners, LLC pamperedgardeners.com Compost Happens Pam Brown, Garden Coach Pampered Gardeners, LLC pamperedgardeners.com What is: Compost? The partially decomposed remains of plants and other organic materials. Composting? The controlled

More information

Backyard Composting CRAIG G. COGGER & DAN M. SULLIVAN

Backyard Composting CRAIG G. COGGER & DAN M. SULLIVAN Backyard Composting CRAIG G. COGGER & DAN M. SULLIVAN Backyard Composting Craig G. Cogger and Dan M. Sullivan Gardeners have long made and used compost because of the way it improves garden soil. Today,

More information

Compost Bins: A How-To Guide. to a Healthy Yard. Grow a Greener Saskatoon. Other Considerations. Troubleshooting

Compost Bins: A How-To Guide. to a Healthy Yard. Grow a Greener Saskatoon. Other Considerations. Troubleshooting Other Considerations Troubleshooting Particle size. Bacteria work faster if their food is in smaller pieces. Take time to break up items as you add them. Woody materials will only compost well if they

More information

From Garbage to Gold. Turning Organic Material Remains into a Valuable Resource. Amy Cabaniss, PhD URI Outreach Center

From Garbage to Gold. Turning Organic Material Remains into a Valuable Resource. Amy Cabaniss, PhD URI Outreach Center From Garbage to Gold Turning Organic Material Remains into a Valuable Resource Amy Cabaniss, PhD URI Outreach Center Compost - What is it? a mixture of decayed plants and other organic matter used by gardeners

More information

Soil Health and Fertilizer. Pam Brown, Extension Agent Emeritus, Gardening Coach

Soil Health and Fertilizer. Pam Brown, Extension Agent Emeritus, Gardening Coach Soil Health and Fertilizer Pam Brown, Extension Agent Emeritus, Gardening Coach pamperedgardeners@gmail.com www.pamperedgardeners.com What is Soil : Weathered rock, formed from a slow and sequential set

More information

Don't Bag It - Leaf Management Plan

Don't Bag It - Leaf Management Plan Don't Bag It - Leaf Management Plan During the year, at least 20 percent of the solid waste generated comes from grass clippings, tree leaves and other landscape wastes. Bagging these materials and placing

More information

BASICS OF SOIL FERTILITY FOR URBAN (AND NON-URBAN) GROWERS. Erin Silva and Anne Pfeiffer UW-Madison PLANTS NEED

BASICS OF SOIL FERTILITY FOR URBAN (AND NON-URBAN) GROWERS. Erin Silva and Anne Pfeiffer UW-Madison PLANTS NEED BASICS OF SOIL FERTILITY FOR URBAN (AND NON-URBAN) GROWERS Erin Silva and Anne Pfeiffer UW-Madison PLANTS NEED 1 SOILS: MORE THAN JUST DIRT Growing media for plants Support Provide air and water to plants

More information

It s Recycling. Naturally

It s Recycling. Naturally It s Recycling Naturally What is composting? Using the natural process of decay to change organic wastes into a valuable humus-like material called compost Grass clippings Food scraps Compost Leaves Composting

More information

Its Recycling. Naturally

Its Recycling. Naturally Its Recycling Naturally What is composting? Using the natural process of decay to change organic wastes into a valuable humus-like material called compost Grass clippings Food scraps Compost Leaves Composting

More information

step 4 Soil Prep & Planting

step 4 Soil Prep & Planting step 4 Soil Prep & Planting The Dirt On Colorado Soil Good soil is the basis of any successful water-wise landscape but here in Colorado, most of it is sandy or full of clay. Luckily you can whip your

More information

Soil Health: Composting, and the Benefits of Intercropping and Cover Crops

Soil Health: Composting, and the Benefits of Intercropping and Cover Crops Soil Health: Composting, and the Benefits of Intercropping and Cover Crops Andy Waltke, M.S. Creighton University Common Soil Seed Library Lecture Series What is soil? Biotic = living component Bacteria

More information

Good Practice Guide: Composting for SME s

Good Practice Guide: Composting for SME s Good Practice Guide: Composting for SME s Introduction to Composting Composting is nature's process of recycling decomposed organic materials into a rich soil known as compost. Anything that was once living

More information

Your Logo Here. Recycle with us today! Grow with us tomorrow! Kevin Anderson

Your Logo Here. Recycle with us today! Grow with us tomorrow! Kevin Anderson Your Logo Here Recycle with us today! Grow with us tomorrow! Kevin Anderson www.missouriorganic.com 816-483-0908 A Problem???? 2 What Happens to Soils and Soil Functions as We Turn Forests into Cities?

More information

Composting 101. Charlotte Glen Horticulture Agent, NC Cooperative Extension Chatham County Center

Composting 101. Charlotte Glen Horticulture Agent, NC Cooperative Extension Chatham County Center Composting 101 Charlotte Glen Horticulture Agent, NC Cooperative Extension Chatham County Center Review these slides and learn more: http://go.ncsu.edu/compost-resources Why Compost? Recycle organic materials

More information

Living Soil, Lovely Garden!

Living Soil, Lovely Garden! Living Soil, Lovely Garden! Organic, soil-focused gardening for healthy plants and efficient water use With Connie Kuramoto, Gardens on the Go www.gardensonthego.net Source: npic.orst.edu Source: greenbeanconnection.wordpress.com

More information

because rinds, limbs, cleanout, etc...are Terrible Things to Waste!! Cornell Waste Management Institute cwmi.css.cornell.edu

because rinds, limbs, cleanout, etc...are Terrible Things to Waste!! Cornell Waste Management Institute cwmi.css.cornell.edu Home Composting because rinds, limbs, manure, leaves, garden cleanout, etc...are Terrible Things to Waste!! Jean Bonhotal Jean Bonhotal cwmi.css.cornell.edu Composting to Reduce the Waste Stream and. Make

More information

Its Recycling. Naturally

Its Recycling. Naturally Its Recycling Naturally What is composting? Using the natural process of decay to change organic wastes into a valuable humus-like material called compost Grass clippings Food scraps Compost Leaves Composting

More information

Its Recycling. Naturally

Its Recycling. Naturally Its Recycling Naturally What is composting? Using the natural process of decay to change organic wastes into a valuable humus-like material called compost Grass clippings Food scraps Compost Leaves Composting

More information

Love Dirt. healthy soil, healthy future. Mission Composts! John Paul, PhD President

Love Dirt. healthy soil, healthy future. Mission Composts! John Paul, PhD President Love Dirt healthy soil, healthy future Mission Composts! John Paul, PhD President Mission Composts! Soil organic matter What is compost? Mission composts! Compost for lawns What is Soil? Soil is 95 to

More information

/ A/ -Composting: The Basics. An ancient practice, composting is mentioned in the Bible several times and can be

/ A/ -Composting: The Basics. An ancient practice, composting is mentioned in the Bible several times and can be q e Compost Resource Page: Composting Overview http ://www.oldgrowth.org/compost/compost.html wc / A/ -Composting: The Basics P I.ihA ' Composting is the transformation of organic material (plant matter)

More information

Landscaping for. Water Quality. Composting Basics. Homeowners & Stormwater Public Workshop March 18, 2017 John Hubbs, Fellow MGs

Landscaping for. Water Quality. Composting Basics. Homeowners & Stormwater Public Workshop March 18, 2017 John Hubbs, Fellow MGs Landscaping for Water Quality Composting Basics Homeowners & Stormwater Public Workshop March 18, 2017 John Hubbs, Fellow MGs What is Compost? Decomposed organic matter Grass clippings Food scraps Used

More information

Home Composting Part 2 The Nuts and Bolts of Composting

Home Composting Part 2 The Nuts and Bolts of Composting Home Composting Part 2 The Nuts and Bolts of Composting JOHN PORTER AG & N ATURAL RES O U RCES AG EN T WVU K AN AWH A CO U N TY EX TEN S IO N S ERVICE What do you need to make compost? Decomposers Your

More information

COMPOSTING: The Basics

COMPOSTING: The Basics Search GENERAL INFO PRODUCTS VERMI COMPOST TEA LARGE SCALE TOILETS EDUCATION OTHER SITES Interested in the various aspects of composting? Well, you've come to the right place. On our site you will find

More information

Getting the Most out of Your Strawberry Soil Test Report. General Information

Getting the Most out of Your Strawberry Soil Test Report. General Information gardening.cornell.edu Getting the Most out of Your Strawberry Soil Test Report 1. Be certain your soil ph is in the optimal range. 2. Add a nitrogen (N) source at the recommended rate and time. 3. Add

More information

Grinnell College Dorm Compost Guide

Grinnell College Dorm Compost Guide What is Composting? Grinnell College Dorm Compost Guide Composting is the recycling of organic materials. In nature, all things are constantly being recycled within ecosystems. Similarly, composting facilitates

More information

XERISCAPE The conservation of water and energy through creative landscape.

XERISCAPE The conservation of water and energy through creative landscape. The conservation of water and energy through creative landscape. Almost every summer North Texas has been plagued with drought like conditions. This and a growing population has increased the demand of

More information

Taking Compost to the Next Level Duane Friend University of Illinois Extension

Taking Compost to the Next Level Duane Friend University of Illinois Extension Taking Compost to the Next Level Duane Friend University of Illinois Extension What do YOU look for in a good finished compost? FINISHED COMPOST Has dark color, earthy smell, and is crumbly No odors Ready

More information

Unit 4 Landscape Installation

Unit 4 Landscape Installation Unit 4 Landscape Installation Chapter 8 (lawns) slp 4.1 Soil Amendments I. Soil conditioners change the physical AND chemical properties of a soil A. Physical 1. Aggregate same size particles into clumps

More information

Soils 101: A practical approach. Kevin Marini UCCE Placer/Nevada Counties

Soils 101: A practical approach. Kevin Marini UCCE Placer/Nevada Counties Soils 101: A practical approach Kevin Marini UCCE Placer/Nevada Counties Soils 101: agenda Soil Basics Soil Fertility (how plants and soil interact) Soil Food Web Fertilizers/Amendments Soils 101: a Quote

More information

Ecological Landscaping Association's 2013 Conference & Eco-Marketplace February 27, Geoff Kuter, Ph.D. Agresource Inc.

Ecological Landscaping Association's 2013 Conference & Eco-Marketplace February 27, Geoff Kuter, Ph.D. Agresource Inc. Ecological Landscaping Association's 2013 Conference & Eco-Marketplace February 27, 2013 Geoff Kuter, Ph.D. Agresource Inc. www.agresourceinc.com Since 1984, providing organic waste management services

More information

Creating Your Organic Garden:

Creating Your Organic Garden: Organic Gardening Creating Your Organic Garden When Choosing What To Grow You Should Consider... Tending To your Garden Advantages To Organic Gardening Organic Garden Quiz Quiz Answers Organic Gardening

More information

Soil Composting. Composting Containers:

Soil Composting. Composting Containers: Composting When I gardened at the farm with my mother and then again in my own yard, every few years we rototilled in piles of old manure (compost). This added fiber and nutrients. If you don t have access

More information

Factoids on SC soils. Soils. What is Soil? Variability of soils in your yard. Soil Components. Soil Tilth 6/23/14

Factoids on SC soils. Soils. What is Soil? Variability of soils in your yard. Soil Components. Soil Tilth 6/23/14 Factoids on SC soils Soils Managing Soils Over 100 different soil types Soil type covering largest areas 7.0% Ben Lomond Complex 50-70% slope 5.6% Lompoc Felton Complex 50-75% slope 5.8% Lompoc Felton

More information

The Nature of Soil Soil Conservation Sustainable Ag.

The Nature of Soil Soil Conservation Sustainable Ag. Chapter 6 & 7 The Nature of Soil Soil Conservation Sustainable Ag. Climate Soil Forming Factors Parent material Organisms Topography Time Value of Soil Soil is under appreciated Condition of soil affects

More information

CLASS NOTES ON WATERING YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN

CLASS NOTES ON WATERING YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN CLASS NOTES ON WATERING YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN Keys To Vegetable Gardening Soil Sun Proper Plant Selection Watering Seasonal Planting PRIMARY FACTORS THAT IMPACT WATER NEEDS Soil (Mix, Ground, Raised Bed,

More information

THE TENNESSEE VEGETABLE GARDEN

THE TENNESSEE VEGETABLE GARDEN THE BACKYARD SERIES BACKYARD VEGETABLES W 346-A THE TENNESSEE VEGETABLE GARDEN SITE SELECTION AND SOIL TESTING Natalie Bumgarner, Assistant Professor and UT Extension Residential and Consumer Horticulture

More information

LIFETIME COMPOST TUMBLER HOW TO INSTRUCTIONS

LIFETIME COMPOST TUMBLER HOW TO INSTRUCTIONS LIFETIME COMPOST TUMBLER HOW TO INSTRUCTIONS Copy LIFETIME COMPOST TUMBLER COMPOSTING - ACCELERATING NATURE S PROCESS In nature, such as grasslands or forests, plants die or shed their foliage which returns

More information

COMPOSTING & VERMICOMPOSTING

COMPOSTING & VERMICOMPOSTING COMPOSTING & VERMICOMPOSTING An alternative waste management Reginald TOUSSAINT May 2012 Why composting? Amount of wastes are generated every day Concerns relating to land degradation( soil health, soil

More information

Getting Started with Your Vegetable Garden

Getting Started with Your Vegetable Garden The Basics Getting Started with Your Vegetable Garden Nathan Gerber Advanced Master Gardener USU Extension Thanksgiving Point A little About Vegetables Choosing the Right Location Planning your Garden

More information

Compost Production and Utilization. Natalie Yoder M.S. Horticulture and Organic Soil Fertility Colorado State University

Compost Production and Utilization. Natalie Yoder M.S. Horticulture and Organic Soil Fertility Colorado State University Compost Production and Utilization Natalie Yoder M.S. Horticulture and Organic Soil Fertility Colorado State University Natalie.Yoder@colostate.edu In what age range are you? A. Under 18 B. 19-34 C. 35-49

More information

Soils and plant nutrients

Soils and plant nutrients Soils and plant nutrients Soils and soil texture Soil texture triangle Plant nutrients Major nutrients Secondary nutrients Minor nutrients Exchange Capacity (CEC) Soil ph Soils Consists of a series of

More information

OUTDOOR COMPOSTING GUIDE

OUTDOOR COMPOSTING GUIDE OUTDOOR COMPOSTING GUIDE How To Start Composting Outdoors in New York City nyc.gov/compostproject Follow @NYCzerowaste on social media What is composting? Composting is the process of creating the ideal

More information

On-Farm Composting Vermicomposting

On-Farm Composting Vermicomposting On-Farm Composting Vermicomposting & Luke Freeman, University of Arkansas Beginning Farmer Workshop, May 11, 2013 Kerr Center for Sustainable Agriculture What is compost? Decomposed Organic Matter Managed

More information

Soil & Fertilizer. Pam Brown, Extension Agent Emeritus, Gardening Coach

Soil & Fertilizer. Pam Brown, Extension Agent Emeritus, Gardening Coach Soil & Fertilizer Pam Brown, Extension Agent Emeritus, Gardening Coach pamperedgardeners@gmail.com www.pamperedgardeners.com What do Plants Need? Temperature Water Nutrients Air Soil Soil Amendments Fertilizer

More information

Terms and Definitions. Characteristics and Qualities. Environmental Issues

Terms and Definitions. Characteristics and Qualities. Environmental Issues GROWING MEDIA & SOIL AMENDMENT Terms and Definitions Characteristics and Qualities Uses Environmental Issues EARTHWIZE ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP HORTICULTURAL DIVISION Suite C12, Century Square, Heron Crescent,

More information

Soil Structure and the Physical Fertility of Soil

Soil Structure and the Physical Fertility of Soil 12 17 th December 2015 Soil Structure and the Physical Fertility of Soil Christopher Johns Research Manager Northern Australia Key Points The physical properties of soil are at least as important as the

More information

Start COMPOSTING Today!

Start COMPOSTING Today! Start COMPOSTING Today! Why Should I Compost? If you had a choice, which would you rather see grow the modern day victory garden in your backyard, or that everexpanding landfill down the highway? Probably,

More information

2014 O.G.S. Harvest Conference Back Yard Composting Made Easy. Mark Langner MAYTime Composting Burnsville, NC

2014 O.G.S. Harvest Conference Back Yard Composting Made Easy. Mark Langner MAYTime Composting Burnsville, NC 2014 O.G.S. Harvest Conference - - - - - - Back Yard Composting Made Easy Mark Langner MAYTime Composting Burnsville, NC MAYTime Composting Mark Langner Life-Long Long Gardener and Bad Composter. In 1999

More information

Master Composting Program. Sam Angima OSU Extension Lincoln County, Oregon

Master Composting Program. Sam Angima OSU Extension Lincoln County, Oregon Master Composting Program Sam Angima OSU Extension Lincoln County, Oregon Overview of Section I Introduction to soils What is CEC The role of organic matter in plant nutrition What is composting Why compost

More information

Let s Compost! Village of Weston, May 13, 2017

Let s Compost! Village of Weston, May 13, 2017 Let s Compost! Village of Weston, May 13, 2017 Speaker: Karin Sieg But first things first! Keep composting in perspective; it s one of many management tools Try to avoid/reduce materials you generate Landscape

More information

Lesson 7: Operations Active Composting

Lesson 7: Operations Active Composting Lesson 7: Operations Active Composting Learning Objectives: Know the three stages of composting and their function Understand proper compost monitoring procedures Be familiar with proper windrow management

More information

Composting at Home. Getting Started. Location

Composting at Home. Getting Started. Location Composting at Home Getting Started Location Select a site for your compost pile that will provide you with ample room to move and work around it. Choose a shady, protected area, because wind and direct

More information

Organic Recycling. What is Garbage? What is Compost?

Organic Recycling. What is Garbage? What is Compost? Organic Recycling Y What is Garbage? What is Compost? What are the Benefits of Compost? Helps garden & house plants by improving the fertility and health of your soil. Benefits the environment by recovering

More information

Standard Operating Procedures Example Equestrian Compost Program Marin County, CA Jeffrey A. Creque, Ph.D

Standard Operating Procedures Example Equestrian Compost Program Marin County, CA Jeffrey A. Creque, Ph.D s Example Program Marin County, CA Jeffrey A. Creque, Ph.D. 2017 Introduction Visually, there is not much difference between a compost windrow and a plain old pile of manure. The difference

More information

NORTHERN BACKYARD FARMING COMPOSTING

NORTHERN BACKYARD FARMING COMPOSTING NORTHERN BACKYARD FARMING COMPOSTING 3 COMPOST 1 Compost 4 12 Vermicompost 22 Use Your Compost 23 Resources Design and Layout www.soaringtortoise.ca Soaring Tortoise Illustration www.alisonmccreesh.com

More information

The production of organic compost from domestic waste in Koya University campus

The production of organic compost from domestic waste in Koya University campus First International Symposium on Urban Development: Koya as a Case Study 287 The production of organic compost from domestic waste in Koya University campus Nazenine O. Hassan Genetic Center, Faculty of

More information

Composting COMPOSTING

Composting COMPOSTING COMPOSTING Introduction Composting accelerates the decomposition or natural breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms. Composting turns garden waste, kitchen vegetable and fruit scraps, and other organic

More information

HOME COMPOSTING WORKSHOP

HOME COMPOSTING WORKSHOP HOME COMPOSTING WORKSHOP By Amy Goldsmith & Jenny Vickers Clean Water Action May 14, 2014 What is composting? It s dinner for your house plants, flowers and vegetable garden! Composting is the natural

More information

How to Compost in 3 Steps

How to Compost in 3 Steps Teachable Trash by Glad How to Compost in 3 Steps Here s a little secret: anyone can compost regardless of where they live. With the right ingredients and proper care, you can turn your old food and waste

More information

Soil Quality / Understanding Soil Health what are we missing?

Soil Quality / Understanding Soil Health what are we missing? Soil Quality / Understanding Soil Health what are we missing? Soil Quality Test Kit Clarence Chavez Soil Scientist The USDA is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer Soils are not machines: It s an

More information

Save Time and Money and Have a Greener, Healthier Yard!

Save Time and Money and Have a Greener, Healthier Yard! 1 Save Time and Money and Have a Greener, Healthier Yard! GreenScaping: Reduce use of high maintenance plants and all that watering, fertilizing, and pruning Use low maintenance native plants and grasses

More information

WASTE REDUCTION REUSE RECYCLE. Craig G. Cogger REDUCE EB1784 WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE & HOME ECONOMICS

WASTE REDUCTION REUSE RECYCLE. Craig G. Cogger REDUCE EB1784 WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE & HOME ECONOMICS WASTE REDUCTION REUSE WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY EB1784 Craig G. Cogger Craig Dan G. M. Cogger Sullivan Dan Susan M. Sullivan K. Duncan RECYCLE REDUCE COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE & HOME ECONOMICS BACKYARD

More information

Lawn and Yard Care Choices

Lawn and Yard Care Choices SYSTEM (n) Interacting and interdependent parts that form a whole. Whether you choose an exceptional lawn, low input lawn, conversion of lawn, or a combination of types Lawn and Yard Care Choices Thank

More information

What is Xeriscape? Why Xeriscape?

What is Xeriscape? Why Xeriscape? What is Xeriscape? Communities have been faced with increased demands on existing water supplies. Consequently, there is a greater focus on water conservation, not just in times of drought, but in anticipation

More information

KEEPING PLANTS HEALTHY

KEEPING PLANTS HEALTHY KEEPING PLANTS HEALTHY The Right Plant In The Right Place MICROCLIMATE Geographic Location Elevation Topography Exposure LIGHT Exposure: Full Sun South Facing At least 8 hours per day Full Shade North

More information

6/9/2017 COMPOST KEY TO GARDEN SUCCESS. Environmental Self Reliance Easy? WHAT IS COMPOST? Josh Fuder UGA Extension-Cherokee County

6/9/2017 COMPOST KEY TO GARDEN SUCCESS. Environmental Self Reliance Easy? WHAT IS COMPOST? Josh Fuder UGA Extension-Cherokee County WHAT IS COMPOST? COMPOST KEY TO GARDEN SUCCESS Josh Fuder UGA Extension-Cherokee County Compost is a soil amendment. It is a nutrient-rich, dark, crumbly material that helps improve soil health and provides

More information

The Art of Composting

The Art of Composting The Art of Composting Everyone should have a compost pile! Composting Benefits Reduce or eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers. Promote higher yields of agricultural crops. Reduces the need for water,

More information

Building Healthy Soils. Mary Hagedorn

Building Healthy Soils. Mary Hagedorn Building Healthy Soils Mary Hagedorn Please Silence Cell Phone Thank you! Our Vision: A healthier world through environmental stewardship. Our Mission: To support the University of Maryland Extension

More information

Lesson 1: Recognizing the Characteristics of Soils and the Soil Requirements for Fruit and Nut Crops

Lesson 1: Recognizing the Characteristics of Soils and the Soil Requirements for Fruit and Nut Crops Lesson 1: Recognizing the Characteristics of Soils and the Soil Requirements for Fruit and Nut Crops 1 Mineral matter Organic matter Pore spaces Tilth Hygroscopic water Soil aeration 22 I. Soil is a layer

More information

Cornell Waste Management Institute

Cornell Waste Management Institute Cornell Waste Management Institute Department of Crop and Soil Sciences Bradfield Hall http://cwmi.css.cornell.edu Ithaca, NY 14853 email: cwmi@cornell.edu 607-255-1187 Composting at Home - The Green and

More information

Classroom Composting

Classroom Composting Classroom Composting Grade Level: Elementary and Middle School Subject Correlation: Science, Writing Objectives: Students will be able to: 1. Observe and describe the cyclic nature of life. 2. Appreciate

More information

prepping your yard for spring

prepping your yard for spring prepping your yard for spring Spring is almost here, and that means you have some work to do if you want to enjoy green grass, lush shrubs and bushes, and healthy trees in the coming months. Soon, the

More information

Soil Characteristics. Soil Science 101

Soil Characteristics. Soil Science 101 Craig R. Miller Parks & Open Space Manager www.cpnmd.org Soil Characteristics There are several ways to describe soil. Understanding the characteristics of soil helps the gardener amend soil. Urban soil

More information

Get help from landscape experts.

Get help from landscape experts. A Watering Guide for Texas Landscape Water for the future, starting now. Did you know that by 2060 the population in Texas is expected to double and existing water supplies to decrease by nearly 20 percent,

More information

Why is. Vermont Organics. soil the best choice you can make?

Why is. Vermont Organics. soil the best choice you can make? Why is Vermont Organics soil the best choice you can make? We believe gardens should be good for the earth. That s why we use renewable resources in our soils to make gardening sustainable and environmentally

More information

Age Old Organics. Product Catalog. Let s Get Growing Naturally! (800)

Age Old Organics. Product Catalog. Let s Get Growing Naturally!   (800) Age Old Organics Let s Get Growing Naturally! Product Catalog www.ageoldorganics.com (800) 255-4906 1 Liquid Blends Age Old Organics liquid blends are high concentrate plant fertilizers. They are formulated

More information

Recommended Resources: The following resources may be useful in teaching this

Recommended Resources: The following resources may be useful in teaching this Unit D: Fruit and Vegetable Crop Production Lesson 1: Planning and Preparing a Vegetable Garden Site Student Learning Objectives: Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following

More information

Compost: What is it, what it does or doesn t do and how to use it. Lynne Carpenter-Boggs WSU-Pullman Crop and Soil Sciences

Compost: What is it, what it does or doesn t do and how to use it. Lynne Carpenter-Boggs WSU-Pullman Crop and Soil Sciences Compost: What is it, what it does or doesn t do and how to use it Lynne Carpenter-Boggs WSU-Pullman Crop and Soil Sciences What is composting? Decomposition en masse Transformation of raw materials biologically

More information

Eco new farmers. Module 2 Soil and Nutrient Cycling. Section 1 Soils and soil fertility

Eco new farmers. Module 2 Soil and Nutrient Cycling. Section 1 Soils and soil fertility Eco new farmers Module 2 Soil and Nutrient Cycling Section 1 Soils and soil fertility Module 2 Soil and Nutrient Cycling Section 1 - Soils and soil fertility www.econewfarmers.eu 1. Introduction You will

More information

For the Love of the Earth

For the Love of the Earth For the Love of the Earth Composting and other Greening Tips for the Upcoming Gardening Season 16, rue Northumberland St., Toronto, ON M6H 1 Toll Free/Sans frais 877-571-4769 : (GROW) Email/Courriel :

More information

What Can You Compost?

What Can You Compost? Teachable Trash by Glad What Can You Compost? Though the majority of food and yard waste can be composted at home or through a curbside program, it s important to follow these best practices. What to Compost

More information

Unit D: Fruit and Vegetable Crop Production. Lesson 1: Planning and Preparing a Vegetable Garden Site

Unit D: Fruit and Vegetable Crop Production. Lesson 1: Planning and Preparing a Vegetable Garden Site Unit D: Fruit and Vegetable Crop Production Lesson 1: Planning and Preparing a Vegetable Garden Site 1 Terms Adequate sunlight Climate Compost Cool-season vegetables Cover crop Crop rotation Fertile soil

More information