What is it?

The process of composting simply requires segregating a heap of wetted organic matter known as green waste (leaves, food waste) and allowing the materials to break down into humus after period of weeks or months. Compost contains a full spectrum of essential plant nutrients and is the key ingredient in organic farming. You can test the nutrient levels in your compost and soil to find out what other supplements it may need for specific plants. It helps bind clusters of soil particles, called aggregates, which provide good soil structure. Such soil is full of tiny air channels & pores that hold air, moisture and nutrients. Healthy soil is an important factor in preserving water. Compost increases soil’s ability to retain water & decreases runoff. A runoff pollutes water by carrying soil, fertilizers and pesticides to nearby streams. Compost brings and feeds diverse life in the soil. The bacteria, fungi, insects, worms etc encourage healthy plant growth.

By recycling the organic materials, valuable nutrients and organic matter are recycled. You have helped alleviate the solid waste problem!

How Compost Aids in Nutrient Retention

The addition soil perseverance, compost adds nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, as well as micronutrients such as manganese, copper, iron and zinc. While these micronutrients are only needed in small amounts, they are important contributors to a plant’s overall health. Commercial fertilizers often lack in micronutrients, so compost is an added boon to the health of your plants.

Other Advantages of Using Compost

Compost-amended gardens also tend to have fewer pest problems, without usage of pesticides and are more resistant to diseases. Compost that is predominantly leaf based has been shown to be effective against nematodes, and compost application to grass suppresses a multitude of fungal diseases.
Another advantage of using compost is in its prevention of erosion. Compost loosens tightly bound particles in clay or silt, allowing roots to easily spread and thereby impeding erosion.

Know that organic materials should be recycled into the soil instead of being put in a garbage can. By recycling the organic materials, valuable nutrients and organic matter are recycled. You have helped alleviate the solid waste problem!