#Permaculturecompost скачать в хорошем качестве

#Permaculturecompost

What is Compost? Compost is a nutrient-rich, soil-like material produced through the decomposition of organic matter (such as food scraps, leaves, grass clippings, and manure) by microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and other decomposers. The process turns waste into a dark, crumbly, earthy-smelling substance that improves soil health. What is Compost Used For? Soil amendment: Enhances soil structure, water retention, and aeration. Fertilizer: Provides essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) for plants. Erosion control: Helps stabilize soil. Waste reduction: Diverts organic waste from landfills. Disease suppression: Some composts contain beneficial microbes that fight plant pathogens. History of Compost Ancient civilizations: Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used decomposed organic matter in agriculture. Traditional farming: Indigenous cultures practiced composting (e.g., Native American "Three Sisters" farming). Modern composting: Scientific understanding of decomposition led to optimized composting methods (hot composting, vermicomposting). How to Make Compost Fast (Hot Composting) Requirements: Balanced mix of "greens" (nitrogen-rich: food scraps, grass clippings) and "browns" (carbon-rich: leaves, straw, cardboard). #Aeration: Turn the pile regularly (every few days). Moisture: Keep it damp (like a wrung-out sponge). Size: At least 3x3x3 ft to retain heat (speeds up microbial activity). Timeframe: 1–3 months. How to Make Compost Slow (Cold Composting) Simply pile organic materials and let them decompose naturally. No turning, slower breakdown (6 months–2 years). Less labor-intensive but may attract pests. Which is Better? #Hotcomposting: Faster, kills weed seeds/pathogens, better for large-scale use. Cold composting: Easier, but slower and less controlled. Do People Use Permaculture Swales for Composting? Swales (water-harvesting ditches) are primarily for slowing and absorbing water, not composting. However, organic matter in swales can decompose over time, enriching the soil. Some permaculture designs integrate composting directly into garden beds (sheet mulching, #hugelkultur). What Happens to #Microorganisms During Composting? 1. Mesophilic bacteria (moderate temp) start breaking down easy-to-digest materials. 2. As heat builds (104–140°F), thermophilic bacteria take over, speeding decomposition. 3. Fungi and actinobacteria break down tougher materials (lignin, cellulose). 4. As the pile cools, earthworms and other decomposers further process the compost. What Causes the Breakdown of Organic Matter? #Microbial activity (bacteria, fungi, actinobacteria). #Macroorganisms (earthworms, insects). Environmental factors (oxygen, moisture, temperature, C:N ratio). When Does Compost Have Value to Plants? Finished compost (dark, crumbly, earthy smell) is ready when original materials are unrecognizable. Immature compost can harm plants (nitrogen tie-up, pathogens). Best use: Mixed into soil before planting or as mulch. Final Thoughts Composting mimics nature’s recycling system, turning waste into valuable soil food. Whether fast or slow depends on your needs—both methods enrich the soil sustainably!