By Brian Randall
Each spring you can see Gwenyn Hill farmers spreading compost on the fields. We use compost as an amendment for our soil in order to improve soil structure, to increase water retention, balance PH and to provide essential nutrients. A good quality compost will stimulate microbial activity in the soil, making nutrients more available and providing natural competition for harmful pathogens. Basically, to an organic farmer, compost is like gold.
But compost is not just for farmers!
Turning something that would otherwise be waste and scraps into something that can feed the soil can be such a rewarding experience, but is it a realistic practice to do at home? Here are a few barriers that keep people from trying.
Space requirements
“I would totally do that, but I don’t have the space.” Space available in the back yard is one of the most cited reasons home growers do not take up this practice, but this does not have to be such a barrier. From small counter-top bins for collecting food scraps to outdoor stationary bins and tumblers, there are creative options that fit any space and budget. My first compost bin was actually a retired harvest tote, and it worked wonderfully!
Compost odor
“My friend told me compost piles stink! I can’t have that in my yard!” This is a misconception that turns a lot of people away from trying this at home. If managed correctly the compost takes on a mild earthy aroma, smelling like a forest floor after the rain. Proper management means finding the “golden ratio” of 2 parts brown (carbons) and 1 part green (nitrogens). Getting closer to this ratio will keep the microbes active and limit the odor coming from the mixture. The other piece to the puzzle is oxygen, which the microbes need to break down the material. Introducing oxygen will keep the compost from becoming too wet, leading to an anaerobic environment.
Time required
“But doesn’t making compost take a long time? How can I fit that into my busy schedule?” It is true, building soil takes a long time. Incredibly, a regularly managed compost bin can yield well seasoned compost in a few short months. Often this time can be reduced by regularly introducing oxygen, or “turning” the pile. Starting your pile this spring or summer will mean having fresh compost for a late-season amendment, keeping your soil life happy and healthy.
The process of making compost is the story of taking something from waste to want; scraps to soil. This is a simple way to help your local ecosystem and help heal our environment. You can read more about the science of making compost and using it to grow healthy food at the University of Wisconsin Extension website.