How compost is made
How compost is made
Compost is rich organic matter that has been broken down by microbes into the nutrients your plants need for optimal growth. However, there is an art to composting that is more than just piling grass clippings in a pile and letting them rot. True compost is a lot of work.
First, a layer of brown material such as chipped wood or dead leaves is laid down. Then a layer of green material such as grass clippings is laid down. In some piles, a layer of manure is then applied, others use only plant material. Then nitrogen is laid down to give the microbes the nutrients necessary to decompose all this matter. This layering is continued until the compost is at the desired height.
The pile must be kept at the proper humidity for the microbes to thrive, so it is watered periodically. At least weekly, the whole pile is turned. This aerates the pile and distributes the microbes throughout the pile. It also keeps the interior temperature of the pile above 155 degrees F, to kill weed seeds and pathogens. Sometimes, however, the pile threatens to get too hot and smolder or burn, so it must be pulled apart to cool. Both the humidity and the temperature of the pile must be carefully monitored.
The pile is allowed to compost for a year. At the end of this time, it smells and looks like rich dirt. There are no particles large enough to discern the plant or animal matter that the compost came from. If you can tell where the compost came from, it isn’t ready.
Compost is a necessary ingredient in good gardening. Fortunately for you, we spend the time to make it properly and age it until it is perfect for your garden. Where can you buy compost and what are the prices? Contact us today at (813) 358-8990 to order your rich compost and have it delivered tomorrow.
