Concept in Definition ABC

The microorganisms capable of generating compost bacteria, fungi and worms, although there are some more, these are the best known. The grace of composting lies in the fact that it is a phenomenon of natural transformation of organic waste, which allows us to reduce approximately 30% of the waste we generate daily. This is so because, according to statistical studies, approximately 50% of the waste generated is organic and only some of it is compostable.

What organic waste is compostable?

We would be surprised at the amount of waste that is not garbage, rather, it will be fertilizer for our land. Among the compostable waste we have: shells, remains of fruits and vegetables, although, for example, citrus fruits are not recommended in composting with Californian worms, since they lower the pH, making it difficult to find the right medium for their developing. In addition, remains of infusions such as tea, coffee and mate are disposable in the compost. We can also add, eggshells and everything that contributes

environment Dry and regulate the percentage of moisture such as dry grass and branches, bouquets of dried flowers, napkins and soiled paper with food and sawdust.

Through this biological oxidation process carried out by microorganisms, fertilizer with a high concentration of nutrients is generated to be used on the land. It is not necessary to have large elements and a large space to carry out this very special activity. special from all senses, from the connection with the land and its fruits, to the understanding of the possibility that we have in our hands to generate less waste by contributing and returning to the earth the best for it.

How to compost?

To start composting we need a container space, it can be a bucket or a box (including wood or plastic). Organic waste should be stacked there, avoiding continually moving the compost bin from place to avoid variations in temperature and humidity. Preferably, make the compost in a dark place and in moderate temperatures, avoiding heat strokes and extreme cold. If the environment is well managed, the compost should not have an odor.

For microorganisms to have access to the waste, it must be placed on the ground, or they can be added externally, for example, the case of Californian earthworms. All added material must be crushed to favor its rapid decomposition and, usually, the compost must be removed to provide the amount of air necessary for decomposition. Although this task is recommended, it should not be done continuously, since it would also generate an unwanted extra supply of light. The degradation process consists of an aerobic process, which translates into an increase in temperature in the compost (60 ºC), which is necessary for the degradation of organic waste. Once the decomposition phase is over, the activity of the microorganisms slows down, entering the decomposition phase. maturation of the compost. Here, temperatures drop to 20-30 ºC and microorganisms multiply. In turn, there will be materials in different stages over time. Turning is also usually done to homogenize the mixture, ensuring the correct proportions of moisture. If the mix has excessive moisture, leachates are generated. These are natural fertilizers that have to be reduced to be used on plants.

Once the compost bin is filled, approximately six months later, the compost is said to be mature and usable (bottom). This mature compost should have a smell of fertile soil or "rain”, and the appearance should be earth with brown / black lumps. It is removed from the compost bin and set aside 15 days before being used, in order to ensure that we will not introduce larvae and earthworms into the plants.

If the compost is fresh, it can be used on the soil to protect it from extreme conditions and to retain moisture. On the other hand, if it is ripe it can be used as a fertilizer (it provides large amounts of nutrients) in plants, fruit trees and orchards.

If your compost smells bad or there is no decomposition of the garbage, check its humidity and temperature conditions.

Topics in Composting