Composting Composting is controlling the natural decay of organic matter by providing the right conditions for composting critters to convert yard trimmings into a product that can be returned to your landscape and garden. Tiny organisms (mainly bacteria, fungi and protozoa) break down garden and landscape trimmings in a moist, aerobic (oxygen-demanding) environment. The final product is a dark, crumbly form of decomposed organic matter. Compost improves your soil. When added to soil, compost breaks up heavy clay soils, helps sandy soils retain water and nutrients, and releases essential nutrients. Compost also contains beneficial microscopic organisms that build up the soil and make nutrients available to plants. Improving your soil is the first step towards growing healthy plants. COMPOST STRUCTURES Composting structures can be made from a wide variety of materials or purchased through local garden centers or mail order catalogues. There are no set rules when building a compost bin. The sides should be loose enough to provide some air movement and one side should open for easy turning and compost removal. If you choose not to use a container, cover the heap with a layer of yard trimmings or soil to prevent moisture loss. Pre-made compost bins are great such as the one featured through our Country Stores. USING COMPOST Think of compost as a soil amendment and not as a fertilizer, since the nutrient level of compost is low and released over time. Mix compost with soil to enrich the flower and vegetable garden. It can be used to improve the soil around trees and shrubs, as a top-dressing for lawns, or as a mulch. Screen compost by separating the larger particles and any uncomposted materials from the finer ones and add it to the potting mix for houseplants. No more than one-quarter to one-third by volume of the potting mix should be compost. Soaking compost in a burlap or cheesecloth sack steeped in water can make compost "tea." The weak nutrient solution can be given to young plants. Co-op Country stores carry all your composting needs. If you are having some problems with your composting, this trouble shooting guide may help. Happy composting Trouble Shooting Guide for Efficient Composting Symptoms Problems Solutions Rotten odor Not enough air; pile too wet Turn pile; add coarse, dry materials (straw, corn stalks, etc.) Ammonia odor Too many greens (excessive nitrogen/lack of carbon) Add browns (straw, paper or sawdust) Low pile temperature Too small; not enough air or moisture; few greens; or cold weather Make pile larger; add water while turning the pile; mix in nitrogen sources (grass clippings, manure, or a synthetic fertilizer, such as 10-10-10); or insulate the pile with a layer of straw or plastic High pile temperature Too large; not enough air Reduce pile size; turn pile Pests, such as rats, raccoons or insects Meat or fatty food scraps in pile Remove meat and fatty foods from pile; cover with a layer of soil or sawdust; build an animal-proof compost bin