lecture 13 Flashcards
compost activators
Contain populations of decomposers and a nitrogen-protein source to sustain decomposers in initial stages
natural activators (4)
loamy soil - decaying organic component contains microbes
compost
PRO meal
manure
artificial activators
fertilizers e.g. 10-10-10
Inoculant - dormant bacterial & fungi package as tablets or granules
Compost starter – blend of nutrients, carbs, vitamins & minerals
what are 4 forms of compost sys?
bins
pits
covered heaps
loose enclosures
where are 3 places that you see composting sys?
home-based
community gardens
municipal sys
what are the principles (or things to do) for composting? (7)
use thin layers of fresh (wet) & dry materials
Add activators in layers periodically
add moisture as necessary
have an effective pile size
aeration
temp
min odour
what % of moisture should your compost be?
40-60%
what occurs if your compost is too wet?
leads to anaerobic conditions and unpleasant odour
what occurs if your compost is too dry?
slows rate of decomposition
why is it important to have an effective pile size for your compost?
must allow sufficient aeration to prevent overheating & anaerobic conditions
Sufficiently large to be able to reach desired temp
how do you practice good aeration in your compost?
turn periodically
can use pipes or wire mesh to help with aeration
what temp should the compost be during the early cold stages of compost?
40-45C
what temp should the compost be during the hot stages of compost?
60-70C
what pH is desirable for your compost?
5.5-8
what does it mean if your compost smells like ammonia?
too low C:N ratio
