Definition of that, whether the compost has matured or not, is an important step in managing compost. Because immature compost may contain not fully decomposed organic substances. This not only affects plant health, but it can also cause problems with the soil. Here are a few common ways to determine, when your compost pile is ripe. Helps you to make sure, that your organic compost is in perfect condition before use.
Get an individual solution !Appearance and texture
Mature compost usually has a homogeneous dark brown or black color. Like rich garden soil, The texture should be good. Raw materials, Such as leaves, Food waste and t. e in., completely decomposed, and their shape cannot be easily determined. Mature organic compost should be loose and loose, similar to well -decomposed humus. This indicates that, that organic matter is effectively decomposed by microorganisms.
Scent
The smell is one of the intuitive ways to evaluate the maturity of compost. Mature compost should have fresh earthen aroma. If your compost smells of runaway or has a strong smell of ammonia, Maybe, organic matter does not decompose completely. Or in the process of composting there were anaerobic conditions, requiring further processing.
Temperature
The composting process is divided into several stages, Including the stages of heating, high temperature and cooling. At the high -temperature stage, microbial activity is intense, which leads to a significant increase in pile body temperature. As the compost ripens, the temperature gradually drops almost to the ambient temperature. This is due to that, that most of the organic substances decomposed, and microbial activity has decreased. Therefore, you can observe the temperature of the compost. If it remains stable over time and its temperature is close to the ambient temperature, probably, The compost was ripe.
Meaning pH
pH of mature compost usually 6 to 8, that is close to neutral. Meaning pH, deflecting from this range, can indicate that, that there is still acid or alkaline substances in compost, who did not completely decompose. You can easily determine the pH of your organic compost using pH test paper or portable pH meter. To judge his maturity.
Carbon ratio and nitrogen (ratio C.:N)
The ratio of carbon and nitrogen in compost is an important indicator of the degree of decomposition of organic matter. Mature compost ratio of carbon and nitrogen in usually from 10:1 to 15:1. A higher ratio of carbon and nitrogen may mean incomplete decomposition of organic matter. The lower ratio of carbon and nitrogen may indicate that, that the nitrogen content is too large and it must be adjusted before use.
Moisture content
Ideally, mature compost should have suitable humidity, Usually from 30% to 50%. Too high humidity can make the compost sticky and air permeable. Too low humidity can affect the effect of its use and the ability to improve the soil. Here is a way to check humidity, Feeling her: pick up a handful of compost. After that, How you let him go, compost will remain slightly lumpy, which indicates that, that he has matured well.
Combining these methods, You can more fully judge that, whether organic compost has matured. To guarantee, that when used, it maximizes the health of the soil and plant growth. If you are interested in further improving the quality and effectiveness of your compost, You can contact us for purchase modern equipment for composting. Our factory offers a wide range of special equipment, which will help you optimize the composting process. To receive additional information, contact us.
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