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Questions and Answers
What is a primary benefit of composting for soil?
What is a primary benefit of composting for soil?
What temperature range can compost piles reach to benefit the decay process?
What temperature range can compost piles reach to benefit the decay process?
Which component must be balanced to encourage the growth of thermophilic microorganisms in composting?
Which component must be balanced to encourage the growth of thermophilic microorganisms in composting?
What happens to weed seeds during the composting process when conditions are favorable?
What happens to weed seeds during the composting process when conditions are favorable?
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Which of the following is NOT a benefit of composting mentioned?
Which of the following is NOT a benefit of composting mentioned?
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What is a characteristic of finished compost compared to raw materials?
What is a characteristic of finished compost compared to raw materials?
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What happens if ideal conditions for hot composting are not maintained?
What happens if ideal conditions for hot composting are not maintained?
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What is the recommended mixture ratio for energy sources and bulking agents to promote rapid composting?
What is the recommended mixture ratio for energy sources and bulking agents to promote rapid composting?
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How does particle size affect the composting process?
How does particle size affect the composting process?
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Which factors influence the speed and quality of the composting process?
Which factors influence the speed and quality of the composting process?
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What could be added to the compost pile if energy materials are lacking?
What could be added to the compost pile if energy materials are lacking?
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What is the primary role of large invertebrates in the composting process?
What is the primary role of large invertebrates in the composting process?
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What is a downside of cold composting compared to hot composting?
What is a downside of cold composting compared to hot composting?
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What is the purpose of creating a balanced compost environment?
What is the purpose of creating a balanced compost environment?
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Which materials are suggested for building compost containers?
Which materials are suggested for building compost containers?
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What combination of materials is recommended for building the compost pile?
What combination of materials is recommended for building the compost pile?
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What should you do if the compost pile is too dry?
What should you do if the compost pile is too dry?
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What is the ideal moisture level indicated during the composting process?
What is the ideal moisture level indicated during the composting process?
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What is a key advantage of making hot compost?
What is a key advantage of making hot compost?
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What is meant by 'bulking agent' in the composting process?
What is meant by 'bulking agent' in the composting process?
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What is the recommended volume for starting a compost pile?
What is the recommended volume for starting a compost pile?
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What is the main purpose of turning the compost pile weekly?
What is the main purpose of turning the compost pile weekly?
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When should compost mulches ideally be applied to the soil?
When should compost mulches ideally be applied to the soil?
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What temperature range is considered appropriate for curing compost?
What temperature range is considered appropriate for curing compost?
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What is a possible effect of using uncured compost in potting soil?
What is a possible effect of using uncured compost in potting soil?
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What should be done if compost forms a crust on the soil surface?
What should be done if compost forms a crust on the soil surface?
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How does covering the pile during rainy periods benefit the composting process?
How does covering the pile during rainy periods benefit the composting process?
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What characteristic of compost made from woody bulking agents is beneficial for mulching perennial plantings?
What characteristic of compost made from woody bulking agents is beneficial for mulching perennial plantings?
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What is one of the main benefits of mulching with compost?
What is one of the main benefits of mulching with compost?
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How much food waste should you initially add per pound of worms each day?
How much food waste should you initially add per pound of worms each day?
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What should you do if the worms are not eating all the food waste?
What should you do if the worms are not eating all the food waste?
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What is an appropriate way to manage odors in a worm bin?
What is an appropriate way to manage odors in a worm bin?
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What is advised regarding the placement of food waste in a worm box?
What is advised regarding the placement of food waste in a worm box?
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What is the maximum time worms can go without being fed?
What is the maximum time worms can go without being fed?
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What typically happens to the bedding over time in a worm box?
What typically happens to the bedding over time in a worm box?
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What should be done if one plans to be away for an extended period?
What should be done if one plans to be away for an extended period?
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Which of the following is typically a nuisance in a worm bin?
Which of the following is typically a nuisance in a worm bin?
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A few cups of garden soil may help start the process of a new compost pile.
A few cups of garden soil may help start the process of a new compost pile.
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Burying fresh fruit and vegetable wastes in the compost pile helps attract more pests.
Burying fresh fruit and vegetable wastes in the compost pile helps attract more pests.
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It is unnecessary to add any fertilizer to a compost pile that is balanced with nutrients.
It is unnecessary to add any fertilizer to a compost pile that is balanced with nutrients.
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Slow composting generates enough heat to kill most weed seeds.
Slow composting generates enough heat to kill most weed seeds.
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Composting weeds before they go to seed can help prevent more weeding in the garden.
Composting weeds before they go to seed can help prevent more weeding in the garden.
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A worm bin can be used as a method for composting fruit and vegetable wastes.
A worm bin can be used as a method for composting fruit and vegetable wastes.
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Mixing a few inches of waste with soil in a trench is an effective composting method.
Mixing a few inches of waste with soil in a trench is an effective composting method.
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Adding blood meal or bone meal contributes unique benefits to the composting process.
Adding blood meal or bone meal contributes unique benefits to the composting process.
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Composting is a process that recycles nutrients from decaying plants back into the soil.
Composting is a process that recycles nutrients from decaying plants back into the soil.
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Only microorganisms are responsible for the composting process.
Only microorganisms are responsible for the composting process.
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The heat generated during composting is solely due to chemical reactions without any biological activity.
The heat generated during composting is solely due to chemical reactions without any biological activity.
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Plants absorb nutrients and carbon dioxide from the air as part of their growth process.
Plants absorb nutrients and carbon dioxide from the air as part of their growth process.
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Composting plays a role in the earth's biological cycle of growth and decay.
Composting plays a role in the earth's biological cycle of growth and decay.
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When plants die, they become waste material and cannot be utilized in any other process.
When plants die, they become waste material and cannot be utilized in any other process.
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Microorganisms and insects convert dead plant carbon into energy, releasing oxygen in the process.
Microorganisms and insects convert dead plant carbon into energy, releasing oxygen in the process.
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The composting process involves a continuous cycle of growth, decay, and recycling of nutrients.
The composting process involves a continuous cycle of growth, decay, and recycling of nutrients.
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Fires can start in moist compost piles.
Fires can start in moist compost piles.
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Fresh animal manures should be included in compost intended for fresh garden crops.
Fresh animal manures should be included in compost intended for fresh garden crops.
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Composting can kill pathogens present in organic materials.
Composting can kill pathogens present in organic materials.
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It is safe to use compost with herbicide residues immediately in the garden.
It is safe to use compost with herbicide residues immediately in the garden.
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Rodents around a worm bin suggest that it is functioning properly.
Rodents around a worm bin suggest that it is functioning properly.
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Worms for composting can be measured by weight rather than by number.
Worms for composting can be measured by weight rather than by number.
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Compost can benefit from a combination of bedding material and food waste.
Compost can benefit from a combination of bedding material and food waste.
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Placing a sheet of wire mesh over a worm bin can prevent raccoons from accessing it.
Placing a sheet of wire mesh over a worm bin can prevent raccoons from accessing it.
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You should add one pound of food waste for every five pounds of worms each day.
You should add one pound of food waste for every five pounds of worms each day.
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Worms can go three to four weeks without feeding if left undisturbed.
Worms can go three to four weeks without feeding if left undisturbed.
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Fruit flies are considered a serious problem in worm bins.
Fruit flies are considered a serious problem in worm bins.
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It is recommended to bury kitchen wastes in the same place each time in a worm box.
It is recommended to bury kitchen wastes in the same place each time in a worm box.
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Adding too much food waste at once can prevent worms from eating and result in odors.
Adding too much food waste at once can prevent worms from eating and result in odors.
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When away from home for a few days, you should not feed the worms at all.
When away from home for a few days, you should not feed the worms at all.
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Worm bedding will eventually turn a lighter color and must be replaced frequently.
Worm bedding will eventually turn a lighter color and must be replaced frequently.
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You can effectively control odors by using inappropriate waste in the worm bin.
You can effectively control odors by using inappropriate waste in the worm bin.
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Containers used for composting can only be made from materials like old pallets, lumber, and mesh fencing.
Containers used for composting can only be made from materials like old pallets, lumber, and mesh fencing.
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Creating a hot compost pile requires maintaining a balance of air, moisture, and energy.
Creating a hot compost pile requires maintaining a balance of air, moisture, and energy.
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A cubic yard compost pile is typically at least three feet high and five feet wide at the base.
A cubic yard compost pile is typically at least three feet high and five feet wide at the base.
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If the moisture level in a compost pile is ideal, it is perfectly fine to squeeze out several drops of water.
If the moisture level in a compost pile is ideal, it is perfectly fine to squeeze out several drops of water.
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Only energy materials are needed to create a successful compost pile without bulking agents.
Only energy materials are needed to create a successful compost pile without bulking agents.
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Making hot compost is considered to be less labor-intensive than other composting methods.
Making hot compost is considered to be less labor-intensive than other composting methods.
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Compost can effectively kill many weed seeds and disease organisms due to the heat generated during the process.
Compost can effectively kill many weed seeds and disease organisms due to the heat generated during the process.
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Compacting materials in a compost pile can help it break down faster.
Compacting materials in a compost pile can help it break down faster.
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The number of worms you’ll need depends on the weight of the food ______ you plan to add each day.
The number of worms you’ll need depends on the weight of the food ______ you plan to add each day.
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Kitchen wastes break down very ______, so you don’t need to grind them.
Kitchen wastes break down very ______, so you don’t need to grind them.
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Control odors by not overloading the box with ______, using only appropriate waste.
Control odors by not overloading the box with ______, using only appropriate waste.
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When you’re away from home for a few days, just feed the worms a little ______ and leave them undisturbed.
When you’re away from home for a few days, just feed the worms a little ______ and leave them undisturbed.
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Fruit flies are more of a nuisance than a serious ______, but troubleshooting tips can help.
Fruit flies are more of a nuisance than a serious ______, but troubleshooting tips can help.
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Providing adequate fresh ______ is important for maintaining a healthy worm bin.
Providing adequate fresh ______ is important for maintaining a healthy worm bin.
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After some time, the bedding’s color will ______.
After some time, the bedding’s color will ______.
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Check with your county Extension office for any upcoming workshops involving ______ with worms.
Check with your county Extension office for any upcoming workshops involving ______ with worms.
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Some people prefer ______, however, because they look neater or because it is easier to shield them from pests.
Some people prefer ______, however, because they look neater or because it is easier to shield them from pests.
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Making hot compost takes extra effort, but it produces a ______ product quickly.
Making hot compost takes extra effort, but it produces a ______ product quickly.
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A few cups of garden ______ may help start the process of a new compost pile.
A few cups of garden ______ may help start the process of a new compost pile.
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Burying fresh fruit and vegetable wastes in the compost pile helps prevent attracting more ______.
Burying fresh fruit and vegetable wastes in the compost pile helps prevent attracting more ______.
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Collect enough material to make a pile at least one cubic yard in ______.
Collect enough material to make a pile at least one cubic yard in ______.
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It is unnecessary to add any ______ to a compost pile that is balanced with nutrients.
It is unnecessary to add any ______ to a compost pile that is balanced with nutrients.
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Use roughly two parts bulking agent to one part ______ material.
Use roughly two parts bulking agent to one part ______ material.
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Composting weeds before they go to ______ can help prevent more weeding in the garden.
Composting weeds before they go to ______ can help prevent more weeding in the garden.
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If you can barely squeeze out a drop of water, the ______ level is ideal.
If you can barely squeeze out a drop of water, the ______ level is ideal.
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A ______ bin can be used as a method for composting fruit and vegetable wastes.
A ______ bin can be used as a method for composting fruit and vegetable wastes.
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Chop, shred, mow, or smash coarse materials so they will break down ______.
Chop, shred, mow, or smash coarse materials so they will break down ______.
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Continue adding energy material and bulking agent, mixing, and checking ______ until the pile is built.
Continue adding energy material and bulking agent, mixing, and checking ______ until the pile is built.
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Mixing a few inches of waste with ______ in a trench is an effective composting method.
Mixing a few inches of waste with ______ in a trench is an effective composting method.
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Some people compost in open piles; others prefer using ______.
Some people compost in open piles; others prefer using ______.
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Adding blood meal or bone meal contributes unique benefits as ______ fertilizers.
Adding blood meal or bone meal contributes unique benefits as ______ fertilizers.
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Composting is a process that recycles nutrients from decaying ______ back into the soil.
Composting is a process that recycles nutrients from decaying ______ back into the soil.
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Turning the compost pile helps improve its ______ and speeds decay.
Turning the compost pile helps improve its ______ and speeds decay.
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Compost mulched on the soil surface can help control ______ and conserve water.
Compost mulched on the soil surface can help control ______ and conserve water.
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During curing, the compost pile typically reaches temperatures between ______ and 110°F.
During curing, the compost pile typically reaches temperatures between ______ and 110°F.
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Compost that is made from ______ bulking agents decomposes slowly, which is beneficial for perennial plantings.
Compost that is made from ______ bulking agents decomposes slowly, which is beneficial for perennial plantings.
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The compost pile should be turned ______ to mix the materials and ensure proper aeration.
The compost pile should be turned ______ to mix the materials and ensure proper aeration.
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If compost forms a mat on the soil surface, it can impede ______ movement into the soil.
If compost forms a mat on the soil surface, it can impede ______ movement into the soil.
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Compost that is cured properly affects the availability of ______ and microbial activity.
Compost that is cured properly affects the availability of ______ and microbial activity.
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During moist conditions, the compost pile should be covered to prevent it from getting too ______.
During moist conditions, the compost pile should be covered to prevent it from getting too ______.
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Avoid coarse, woody materials because they break down slowly and make the pile hard to ______.
Avoid coarse, woody materials because they break down slowly and make the pile hard to ______.
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Some plants contain compounds that slow microbial ______.
Some plants contain compounds that slow microbial ______.
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Herbicides break down in the environment over ______.
Herbicides break down in the environment over ______.
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Thorough cooking effectively kills ______.
Thorough cooking effectively kills ______.
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A compost pile will ignite only if it has a very hot ______ next to a dry zone.
A compost pile will ignite only if it has a very hot ______ next to a dry zone.
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The edible part of low-growing crops may become contaminated with ______.
The edible part of low-growing crops may become contaminated with ______.
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Some extremely dense, woody materials, such as ______ pits, do not compost.
Some extremely dense, woody materials, such as ______ pits, do not compost.
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The best way to eliminate herbicides from compost is to leave treated ______ on the lawn rather than composting them.
The best way to eliminate herbicides from compost is to leave treated ______ on the lawn rather than composting them.
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Study Notes
Composting
- Composting is the breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms
- Compost helps to improve soil structure and fertility
- Composting reduces waste and helps the environment
- Backyard composting is a simple and effective way to benefit both individuals and their surroundings
Benefits of Composting
- Compost helps to improve soil's ability to retain water and nutrients
- Compost increases soil porosity, making it easier to cultivate
- Compost is a valuable soil amendment, adding organic matter and promoting plant growth
Composting Methods
- Backyard composting can be achieved through various methods including hot composting and slow composting
- Hot composting involves creating an actively managed pile with high temperatures, which effectively kills pathogens and weed seeds
- Slow composting is a passive management approach, where decomposition occurs at a slower rate and may not kill all weed seeds
Key Factors in Composting
- The speed of the composting process is influenced by factors such as:
- Food (raw materials) - Provides energy for microorganisms
- Particle size - Smaller particles offer increased surface area for microbial activity
- Mixing - Ensures adequate aeration and distribution of nutrients
- Pile size - Provides sufficient volume for maintaining optimal temperatures
- Moisture - Appropriate moisture levels support microbial activity
- Aeration - Provides oxygen for the decomposition process
- Microorganisms - The primary drivers of decomposition
- Nutrients - Carbon and nitrogen are essential for microbial growth
Hot Composting
- Hot composting requires a balanced mixture of materials:
- Energy materials - Provide carbon and energy for microbes (e.g., dried leaves, straw, wood chips)
- Bulking agents - Provide nitrogen and structure (e.g., manure, food scraps)
- Aim for a ratio of two parts bulking agent to one part energy source (by volume)
- Grinding or chopping raw materials reduces particle size and speeds up decomposition
- Maintaining a hot compost pile is essential for rapid decomposition and pathogen killing
- Frequent turning of the pile (weekly) is crucial for aeration and mixing.
- Hot compost piles typically reach temperatures of 120°F to 150°F, creating a hostile environment for most weed seeds and pathogens
Curing Compost
- After the active hot composting phase, compost needs to cure (4-8 weeks)
- Curing allows for further decomposition and stabilization of the compost
- Curing temperatures are typically between 80°F to 110°F
- Uncured compost may be harmful to plants as it can contain high levels of ammonia nitrogen
Worm Composting
- Worm composting involves using red wiggler worms (Eisenia fetida) to decompose organic matter
- Worm composting is an effective method for breaking down food scraps and kitchen waste.
- Worm bins are typically constructed with layers of bedding material (e.g., shredded paper, cardboard) and food waste
- The amount of food offered to the worms should be adjusted based on worm population and the rate of consumption.
- Overfeeding can lead to odor problems and encourage pest infestations
- Regular maintenance is needed to ensure healthy worm activity and avoid odor issues
Compost Mulching
- Applying compost as mulch helps to control weeds, conserve water, and protects soil from erosion
- Compost mulch is most effective when applied in early summer after plants are established
- Woody-based composts are suitable for mulching perennial plantings and decompose at a slower rate
Compost Crusting
- Compost may form a crust on the soil surface if it's not properly incorporated
- If crusting occurs, work the compost into the upper soil layers to improve water infiltration
Avoiding Odors and Pests
- Avoid overloading the worm bin with food waste to prevent odors
- Use appropriate compostable materials and ensure sufficient airflow
- Regular feeding and maintenance help to control odors and discourage pest infestations
- Fruit flies are a common nuisance, but manageable through proper bin management
Composting: The Science
- Composting is a natural process driven by microorganisms and other creatures that break down dead plants and animals, recycling nutrients back into the soil.
- The cycle begins with plants absorbing sunlight, carbon dioxide, water, and nutrients from the soil to grow.
- When living things die, microorganisms, fungi, and insects transform the carbon into energy for their growth, releasing carbon dioxide and generating heat.
- The process ultimately returns nutrients to the soil.
Managing the Decay Process
- Adding a few cups of garden soil to a new compost pile can help jumpstart the process.
- The composting process requires the right balance of nutrients, moisture, and air for the microorganisms to thrive.
- Adding fresh waste to a compost pile should involve burying it in the center to prevent attracting pests like flies, rats, and raccoons.
- Fruit and vegetable wastes are especially appealing to pests, so it's important to bury them well.
- You can also bury these wastes directly in your garden or use a worm bin to compost them.
Nutrient Management
- Microorganisms, like humans, require nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur to grow and reproduce.
- These nutrients are found naturally in the raw materials used for composting.
- Nitrogen fertilizer can be helpful for mixes with a high proportion of bulking agents.
- It's best to dilute fertilizer with water and apply it to the compost pile as a solution.
- Blood meal and bone meal are organic fertilizers that can be added to the compost mix to help with nutrient content.
Compost Pile Construction
- Piles work well for composting. However, containers are often preferred because they minimize appearance and pest issues.
- Appropriate materials for containers include old pallets, lumber, mesh fencing, or cinder blocks.
How to Make Compost
Fast (Hot) Composting
- Balancing air, moisture, and energy levels for the compost microorganisms results in a hot compost pile that breaks down quickly.
- The heat generated helps kill weed seeds and disease organisms.
- Making hot compost requires more effort but yields high-quality compost quickly.
Steps for Building a Hot Compost Pile
- Collect enough material for a pile at least one cubic yard in volume.
- Use approximately two parts bulking agent to one part energy material.
- Chop or shred coarse materials for faster breakdown.
- Start by layering energy material and bulking agent, mixing with a pitchfork.
- Check the moisture level by squeezing a handful of the mixture. It should be damp enough to squeeze out a few drops of water.
- Adjust moisture levels by adding water if too dry, or drier material if too wet.
- Continue layering, mixing, and checking moisture until the pile is complete.
Can I Use Manure in My Compost?
- Fresh animal manures often contain pathogens that can make people sick, such as Salmonella and E.coli.
- It is recommended to avoid using fresh manure for composting garden crops.
- To minimize risk, you can wait at least 120 days between applying manure to the garden and harvesting crops.
- You can also avoid using fresh manure altogether for composting garden crops.
- Wait a year or more before using compost that contains manure on garden plants to give pathogens more time to break down and bind.
Troubleshooting Tips
In General
- Avoid adding excess or inappropriate waste to the compost system.
- Ensure that all food waste is completely covered with bedding and protected with newspaper, cardboard, or plastic.
- Measure worms by weight rather than number.
Troubleshooting Tips for Worm Boxes
- Provide adequate fresh bedding.
- Place wire mesh under the worm bin, or raise the bin 12 to 18 inches off the ground to prevent rodents.
- Control odors by removing extra waste, using appropriate waste, and providing fresh bedding.
- Do not overload the bin with food waste until the worm population has been established.
- Cover fresh food waste with bedding and a sheet of newspaper, cardboard, or plastic to minimize fruit flies.
- Ensure the lid is latched or secured to deter raccoons.
- Never add cheese or other animal products to the worm bin.
- Start with one pound of waste per pound of worms per day. Monitor the food consumption and adjust accordingly.
For More Information
- Consult your local Extension office.
- University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service publishes various resources on composting, such as:
- Home Composting (HO-75)
- Constructing a Wire-Mesh Compost Bin (ENRI-307)
- Constructing a Wooden-Pallet Compost Bin (ENRI-308)
- Constructing a Snow-Fence Compost Bin (ENRI-309)
- Constructing a Wood-and-Wire Compost Bin (ENRI-310)
Composting Basics
- Compost is a nutrient-rich soil amendment created by breaking down organic materials like food scraps and yard waste.
- Microorganisms, primarily bacteria and fungi, drive the composting process: they need nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur to thrive.
- Materials in the compost mix provide these nutrients.
- You can add a dilute solution of nitrogen fertilizer if the mix consists mainly of bulking agents.
- Keep the compost pile moist but not soggy.
- To speed up the process, turn the pile weekly. This aerates the pile, mixes materials, and spreads heat evenly.
- The pile will be ready for curing after several weeks of regular turning: this will take an additional four to eight weeks to complete.
- Avoid adding diseased plant material to your compost: this could spread disease in your garden
- Compost can be applied to the soil surface to help control weeds, conserve water and protect soil from erosion.
- A compost mat can form on the soil surface, to prevent this, work the compost into the upper soil layers to prevent crusts from forming.
Hot Composting
- This composting method promotes fast breakdown through a balance of air, moisture, and energy for the compost microorganisms.
- The heat produced kills weed seeds and disease organisms.
- To build a hot compost pile, combine two parts bulking agent (brown materials like shredded branches, wood chips, and straw) to one part of energy material (green materials like food scraps, grass clippings and leaves).
Worm Bins
- Worms, particularly red wigglers, are used to break down food scraps in a bin.
- Worms can be acquired from a friend or from a worm supplier.
- Add a pound of food waste each day for every pound of worms.
- If all food is gone between feedings, add a little more.
- To prevent pests, bury food waste in different locations within the bin.
- Remove any food that appears to be rotting too quickly.
- To keep your bin fresh, change the bedding regularly.
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Description
Explore the fundamentals of composting, including its methods and key benefits for soil health and the environment. Learn how backyard composting can effectively reduce waste while enriching your garden. This quiz will help solidify your understanding of composting practices and their positive impact on ecosystems.
