Contents
In Today’s post, we will discuss the fundamentals of composting, Composting types and basic concepts and requirements of a compost bin whether for home composting to recycle your kitchen waste or for large scale composting in farming.
What is Composting?
Composting is a natural process of breaking down or decomposing various organic materials, which are otherwise regarded as waste products, into a nutrient-rich product known as compost.
Why Should You Compost?
Most solid waste in cities comprises yard and kitchen or food waste. Composting or recycling these items helps reduce the overall amount of waste sent to landfills and incinerators. The final compost is nutrient-rich and can be used to amend poor soils and fertilize gardens, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers, which are hazardous to all organisms on Earth.
Types of Composting
There are three main types of composting: aerobic, anaerobic (such as Bokashi composting), and vermicomposting. Each type has its own pros and cons.
Aerobic Composting
In aerobic composting, air or oxygen is introduced to help break down organic materials. The compost pile needs to be turned for aeration every other day. This can be accomplished using a fork tool or a tumble-style or barrel composter. We will discuss and demonstrate how to easily do aerobic composting later, along with anaerobic or Bokashi composting.
Anaerobic Composting
Anaerobic composting, in contrast to aerobic composting, occurs in the absence of air and is sometimes considered more of a fermentation process. The Japanese method known as Bokashi composting is a prime example of anaerobic composting. This method requires minimal effort—simply add scraps to the composter and seal it airtight. Contrary to common belief, anaerobic composting does not necessarily stink if done properly, as demonstrated with the Bokashi method.
Vermicomposting
Vermicomposting uses earthworms, oxygen, and moisture to break down organic material with minimal odors. In this method, worms do most of the work along with bacteria. It is a preferred method due to its many advantages.
Fundamentals of Composting Components
Key Components
Composting requires three key components: human management, aerobic conditions, and the development of internal biological heat. The composting process involves four equally important components:
- Carbon: Provides energy for microorganisms and contributes to heat production through microbial oxidation. High-carbon materials are generally brown and dry, such as dried leaves, twigs, and sawdust. We will discuss suitable materials for composting and those to avoid in future posts.
- Nitrogen: Essential for the growth and reproduction of organisms that oxidize carbon. High-nitrogen materials are generally green and include wet kitchen scraps like fruits and vegetables. We will explore the importance of the Carbon:Nitrogen ratio in later discussions.
- Oxygen: Necessary for oxidizing carbon and the decomposition process. This is supplied by good aeration of the compost bin and by turning the compost pile regularly.
- Water: Essential for all life forms, including microorganisms and earthworms in vermicomposting. Water must be in the right amount to ensure proper decomposition and temperature regulation. Too much or too little water can be detrimental to composting.
Introducing Microorganisms
Microorganisms are introduced to the pile to start the decomposition process. This can be done by adding quality garden soil, vermicompost, or cow dung manure. There are also commercially available compost makers to assist with this process.
Next Steps
In our next posts, we will list out the materials that can be added to your compost and those that should be avoided.
Please Watch a detailed Video on the Basics of Composting below:
