| "Nature does not compost, she
mulches. Nature does not build piles of organic matter, mix in water and
nutrients, turn the pile, and spread finished compost over the countryside.
Nature mulches using thin layers and lets low temperature or "mesophilic"
organisms do the decomposition at temperatures up to 120°F. Composting
supports a different group of "thermophilic" (heat-loving) organisms that
operate at a higher temperature range from 120°F up to 160°F. The
organisms themselves generate this heat from the organic matter." The
Joy of Composting.
We practice three methods of "composting" in Granny's
Gardens. Each comes with its own teaching possibilities.
-
At this time, most of our "waste" comes from leaves
and garden debris. We have such a large volume of this material that
it is not practical to turn it by hand. For the most part, we practice
nature's way of passive
"cold" composting.
- In the future we hope to establish a whole school
composting program that will capture food waste from the cafeterias through
vermi
composting. At this time, though, our vermi composting is limited
to bins in a number of classrooms.
- Our third method of composting is the
three
bin "hot" method most touted for home use. We use this method for teaching
purposes.
Benefits of Using Compost
- Although the soil surface appears solid, air moves
freely in and out of it. The air in the upper 8 inches of a well-drained
soil is completely renewed about every hour.
- Improves the soil structure, porosity, and density,
thus creating a better plant root environment.
- Increases moisture infiltration and permeability
of heavy soils, thus reducing erosion and runoff.
- Improves water-holding capacity.
- Supplies a variety of macro and micronutrients.
- May control or suppress certain soil-borne plant
pathogens.
- Supplies significant quantities of organic matter.
- Improves the ability of soil to hold nutrients for
plant use.
- Supplies beneficial micro-organisms to soils and
growing media.
Can bind and degrade specific pollutants. |
