08/30/2000 Env Bd Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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In your backyard 11 organic matter eventually decomposes. Composting speeds the process by providing an ideal environment for bacteria and other decompos- ing micro - organisms. The final product, humus or compost, looks and feels like fertile garden soil. This dark, crumbly, earthy - smelling stuff works wonders on all kinds of soil and provides vital nutrients to help plants grow and look better. Decomposing micro- organisms need four key elements to thrive: nitrogen, carbon, moisture, and oxygen. For best results, mix materials high In nitrogen (such as clover and fresh grass clippings) and those high In carbon (such as dried leaves and twigs). If there is not a good supply of nitrogen -rich material, a handful of general lawn fertilizer will help the nitro- gen-carbon ratio. Moisture is provided by rain, but you may need to water or cover the pile to keep It damp. Be careful not to saturate the pile. Oxygen is supplied by turning or mixing the pile. More turning yields faster decomposition. Getting started Many materials can be added to a compost pile, including leaves, grass clippings, straw, woody brush, vegetable and fruit scraps, coffee grounds, livestock manure, sawdust, and shredded paper. Avoid using diseased plants, meat scraps that may attract animals, and dog or cat manure which can carry disease. Composting can be as simple or as involved as you would like, and depends on how much yard waste you have, how fast you want results, and the effort you're willing to invest. Cold composting With cold composting, you can just pile grass clip- pings and dry leaves on the ground or in a bin.This method requires no maintenance, but you'll have to wait several months to a year for the pile to decompose. Cold composting works well if you're short on time or have little yard waste. Keep weeds and diseased plants out of the mix. Add yard waste as it accumulates. 18 • •