Composting - Chapter 5

Average U.S. household produces how much compostable material

650 pounds

Added compost will bind sand particles together, improving water holding and aeration In this type o soil

Sandy soils

Added compost will loosen bonds between clay particles to allow for easier movement of water and roots in this type o soil

Heavy soils

A factor in the soil's ability to hold and supply nutrients

Compost

Example of decomposer

Millipedes

Optimal C:N ratio for composting

30:1

Home composter organic matter categories

Greens & Browns

Process by which anaerobic microbes create compost

Fermentation

Desirable compost pile temperature for killing weed seeds and efficiently producing compost

140 degrees

Compost moisture guideline

Water as necessary to maintain a compost pile that is as damp as a wrung-out sponge

Minimum dimensions to achieve heat in a compost pile

3'x3'x3'

Composter microbes work best in this type of environment

Mildly acidic

Cause rotten smell in compost pile

Anaerobic conditions

An ammonia odor can be corrected by

Adding "browns" to compost pile

Results in a product best used as a fertilizer

Vermicomposting