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Composting - /com-post-iNG/ - noun

April 10th, 2019

Definition: The process by which organic materials considered to be waste products are recycled and decomposed. Together, the organic materials create nutrient-rich, organic matter (compost) that helps fertilize soils.

5 key elements needed for composting:

1. Carbon

2. Nitrogen

3. Air

4. Water

5. Bacteria

Did you know? Composting benefits go far beyond soil fertilization. Compost feeds an immense number of beneficial insects and microbes that in turn enhance the soil structure. These organisms burrow into the ground, creating networks of tunnels around the root systems of the plants, improving aeration and water infiltration. This allows for better root growth, enhances water drainage in clay soils, and improves water and nutrient retention in sandy soils.

In the Forest Garden
Once seeds are planted and the seed coats break down, compost in the soil will act like a sponge, absorbing the water and keeping it moist around the seed for a much longer time. This increases the speed of germination and the likelihood of the young seedling growing through periods of dry weather that would otherwise destroy the tender stems, roots and leaves.