Kompostu

Kompostu, commonly called compost, is the process of transforming organic waste into a stable, soil‑improving material through aerobic decomposition by microorganisms. It is used in gardens, farms, and waste management to recycle kitchen and yard waste, improve soil health, and reduce landfill disposal.

Inputs and balance: Suitable materials include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, grass clippings, leaves, and straw. Avoid meat, dairy, fats, diseased plants, and treated wood. A rough carbon‑to‑nitrogen ratio of about 25–30:1 and adequate moisture help microbial activity. Chopping or shredding inputs and layering greens (nitrogen-rich) with browns (carbon-rich) aids faster decomposition. Proper aeration and moisture (like a wrung‑out sponge) are important.

Methods and process: There are hot (thermophilic) and cold composting. Hot composting raises pile temperatures to around 55–65 C (130–150 F) for several days and requires turning and moisture management to maintain aerobic conditions. Cold composting is slower and requires less intervention. In both methods, piles or bins should be built and regularly turned or aerated, kept moderately moist, and allowed to mature until the material is dark, crumbly, and has an earthy odor.

Finished product and uses: Mature compost is a dark, crumbly, earthy material used as a soil amendment, mulch, or top dressing. It improves soil structure, water retention, microbial activity, and nutrient availability, while reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. Limitations include potential weed seeds or contaminants if inputs are not well managed, and longer maturation times for cold composting.