Compost is partially decomposed organic matter or anything that was once a living plant. It is the product of controlled decomposition of organic materials by microorganisms. Humus is completely decomposed organic matter.
Concrete Block Compost Bin
Photo Credit : Eddie Powell
Green and brown materials with favorable proportions of carbon and nitrogen (C:N) (25:1) offer the microorganisms a “complete meal“. This helps the breakdown of the compost. Greens having high nitrogen and browns having high carbon.
“Green”
- High Nitrogen
- Fast to decompose
- Nitrogen provides the microbes with the raw element of proteins to build their bodies and reproduce.
Examples: manure, kitchen waste, grass clippings, inorganic nitrogen rich fertilizers.
“Brown”
- High Carbon
- Slow to decompose
- Carbon is the energy source for the microbes that help break down the materials.
Examples: leaves, wood chips, straw, sawdust.
Wooden Compost Bin
Picture Credits : Eddie Powell
Layering in Compost Bin
The general rules for composting: 3 – 4″ layers alternating Green (high nitrogen) and Brown (high carbon) materials. Water each layer as you build it so material is moist not wet, like a wrung sponge. End with a Brown layer on top. Thin layers help prevent anaerobic (smelly) pockets from developing and allows microbes access to both Green and Brown food sources. Do not use meat (eggshells are OK) or dog / cat manure in your compost.
Make sure to filter your composting system because it may not break down all the larger materials, such as corncobs or wood chips.
When you screen your compost, any material larger than your screen size will be removed. The screened particles can be placed back in the compost bin to provide aeration. Additionally, the microbes attached to these pieces will help jump-start the new composting process.
For more information check out this site: Compost Tips for the Home Gardener.
Educate the residents of Walton County who are unfamiliar with growing certain landscape and vegetable plants that grow in north Florida. Provide homeowners with information about why a good looking healthy lawn is important.Teaching proper fertilization and irrigation practices for successful backyard gardening and container gardening.
Master Gardener Coordinator
Develop in-school programs with use of Master Gardeners to reach school kids and youth.Also provide educational programs for developing community gardens and provide educational material at local festivals.
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