ABSTRACT
Composting is the controlled decomposition of organic matter (OM) through biological processes, with the result being nutrient-rich humus. Composting is simply microbial farming, and anything organic will decompose with time. Physical benefits are improvement of soil structure, water holding capacity, reduction of mass, sustainable land management, improved transportability, modification and stabilization of pH, increase in CEC of soils, providing nutrients, and correcting micronutrient problems. Biological benefits of compost are the provision of soil biota, encouraging the growth of earthworms, suppressing plant diseases, killing weed seeds, lowering costs of fertilizers, binding contaminants, reducing odors, degrading compounds, accelerating nutrient cycling, improving soil aeration, waste management, bulk reduction, and reducing methane gas with composting. Some of the disadvantages are that compost requires high temperatures and good aeration to control pathogens, have a long processing time, require more land, storage, and are labor intensive. The utmost importance in all phases of OM is C:N of 25:1–35:1, resulting in proficient decomposition. Composting of organic residues is performed using aerobic, anaerobic and vermicomposting. The ability to make good compost starts with a good recipe, ability to monitor the compost, and respond to changes as they occur. Many operators suggest there is “an art to composting.”
