What is Compost

Compost is a source of organic material with a unique ability to improve soil characteristics. It is a natural process in which micro and macro organisms break down organic material (leaves, grass, clean wood debris, biosolids, manures, etc.) into a dark nutrient-rich soil amendment.

Soil is necessary to sustain life on Earth and compost has been used for centuries to provide plant nutrients and regenerate depleted lands. Poor soils can be reclaimed through the addition of plant nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and zinc, all of which are contained in compost

Why use Compost

Compost adds organic material and nutrients to soil. It helps prevent pests and plant disease. It enhances the water holding capacity of soil and may reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides. Using compost diverts organic materials from our landfills.

What to Compost

Almost any organic waste can be composted; kitchen scraps, grass clippings, leaves, plant matter, wood ash and manures. Weeds or diseased plant matter should only be composted during warm weather months. Organic waste that should not be used includes plant matter that has been treated with herbicides, and bone and meat scraps.

When is Compost Ready

Compost is typically "finished" after it has undergone a series of steps to ensure maturity and stability. Material is placed into piles where the biological activity begins. As the nitrogen-rich material is depleted, the biological process slows, and the decomposition process stabilizes. The end product should have a dark, crumbly texture with a mild, earthy odor.

Claybuster Compost

Compost breaks down to a workable, porous soil. Find a hard pack clay and try to penetrate the clay with a spade. The result is normally no penetration. Cover with 4" of compost. Do the same test one year later. The spade will penetrate the 4" of compost plus an additional 2". The following year, total spade penetrations will be 8".

Compost Troubleshooting

Bad odor - either the pile is too wet or it has not been sufficiently aerated.