Composting is much easier and less complicated than most people think. It is an environmentally friendly measure to reduce waste and turn it into one of the best soil amendments. But mistakes are not uncommon for beginners in gardening. Here you will find solutions to most problems and tips on how to compost properly.
Composting correctly: What are the most common mistakes we should avoid?
It may be very frustrating if the compost pile does not decompose in a timely manner, smells bad and attracts bugs and pests. We discuss the most common problems that can arise when composting at home and how to avoid them.
Choosing the wrong method
Take your time to decide which method of composting is best for you.
The first option is cold composting, where you put all the organic materials in a pile and stir them regularly and add water.
For hot composting, which requires a core temperature of up to 55 °C, a turning schedule should be adhered to. In this case, the compost pile should be built all at once.
You can also compost animal manure or add worms.
Choose the best method for you before you start.
Place the compost incorrectly
First of all, it is very important to choose the right location for your compost heap. Don't tryto hide him, but find a well-suited position. The right location should provide the best conditions for decomposition. The compost should receive some sunlight, but also be protected from rain. But it should also be easy to reach so that you can easily add kitchen leftovers. Also think about the easiest way to get the finished compost to its destination.
Compost properly: Don’t use the wrong mix
A compost pile should contain the right mix of carbon and nitrogen containing materials. You need “brown” material such as dry leaves, straw, shredded paper and “green” material such as grass, garden waste, fruit and vegetable peelings, coffee grounds and tea bags.
To compost properly, you should always mix three parts brown with one part green materials.
Never add animal food waste such as meat, seafood, dairy and oil products, cat or dog feces.
Never add bread or pasta products to your compost as these products attract various animals and cause foul odors.
Add diseased plants
Another mistake you could make is adding diseased plants to the compost. But if you do this, the disease will spread throughout the compost, and if you spread it across your garden, it will infect all of your plants.
So carefully remove the diseased plant material and also be careful not to introduce weeds into your compost.
Use too little or too much water
Compost needs moisture to function properly. But if it gets too wet, you'll end up with a smelly, muddy mixture that attracts flies and pests. Add more dry leaves or straw at higher humidity levels to help absorb them.
However, if the pile seems dry, add water little by little.
Check your compost regularly. If it feels warm and smells earthy, everything is just right.
Let the compost get too hot
Most people cold compost. In this case, make sure the pile is in the shade in hot weather.
If you choose hot composting, never let the mixture get too hot as this can be counterproductive. The core temperature should be between 55 °C and 10 °C, otherwise the necessary organisms will be killed and white mold will form in the compost.
Not ventilating properly
Oxygen is an important part of the composting process. It is important to aerate the compost by turning or stirring it every few weeks to ensure the decomposition process works properly and all materials are well supplied with air.
You can also purchase an organic compost starter ora homemade compost acceleratorput on.
Leave the compost pile open
It is important to cover the compost to avoid smelly smells, flies, and to prevent it from getting too wet when it rains. A cover also helps retain heat, which is particularly important in winter.
If you build your compost bin yourself, a simple sheet of plywood is sufficient. Leave only a few centimeters of space between the top of the bin and the cover to allow enough oxygen to circulate.
Use the compost immediately
Don't use your compost right after it reaches the desired consistency as it needs time to harden. If you add it to garden beds too early, the oxygen supply to the roots will be reduced and the plants will stop growing or their leaves will turn yellow. Instead, wait at least three weeks after completion and then safely distribute it into your garden.
