COMPOSTING KNOW-HOW

Understanding how your organic matter breaks down is the key to a successful compost heap or bin. The invertebrates that feed on the raw waste you throw in need air and water to survive, as do the bacteria and fungi that perform the lion’s share of the work and release plant nutrients into the finished product. These decomposers also require a balanced diet of foods rich in nitrogen and carbon, and knowing which materials will supply these elements in the right proportions helps you to make the rich, crumbly compost that offers so many benefits in the garden.

Composting Know-How | CONTENTS

THE COMPOSTING PROCESS

INVERTEBRATE COMPOSTERS

BACTERIA AND FUNGI DECOMPOSERS

FEEDING THE DECOMPOSERS

KEY ELEMENTS FOR COMPOSTING

BALANCING AIR AND WATER

RECIPES FOR SUCCESS

WHAT NOT TO COMPOST

USING ANIMAL MANURES

DEALING WITH WEEDS, PESTS, AND DISEASES

The invertebrates and microorganisms responsible for composting are powered by a diet rich in carbohydrates, which gives them energy. They source their food from materials such as egg cartons, paper, and used potting mix.