A good compost pile serves two main purposes.
To begin with, it is an effective method of disposing organic waste.
Besides this, it provides the soil with nutrients.
However, if not effectively managed, compost piles can also pose a health hazard as they could provide a breeding ground for pests.
Careful consideration therefore needs to be put into the method used to create them.
In choosing the most suitable method, a number of factors need to be considered.
To begin with, the space available helps to determine the ideal method for creating a healthy compost pile.
This is because some methods are more suitable for large open spaces and may therefore not be effective or healthy in small spaces.
It is also necessary to consider the ultimate purpose of the compost as well as the duration that one is willing to allow for decomposition before use.
Common Methods of Composting 1.
Composting using Holding Units This method utilizes bins which hold the organic waste materials until the composting process is complete.
This technique is ideal for people with limited space as the bin can even be placed on the balcony of an apartment building.
Another advantage of using the holding units method is that it requires very little maintenance.
This method may not, however, be suitable for individuals who need to use the compost soon.
The reason for this is that as long it is in the bins, it is not possible to turn the compost.
2.
Composting using Turning Units Turning units for composting can either be in the form of a rolling ball, a series of bins or a rotating barrel.
This method facilitates faster decomposition than composting using holding units because turning the compost increases the oxygen content therein.
Oxygen is essential as it is utilized by anaerobic bacteria in the breakdown of materials.
In order for the compost to be ready in two months at the most, the pile is turned at least every ten days.
The process of turning the compost also results in high temperatures within the units, which effectively kills disease-causing micro-organisms.
3.
The Compost-heap Method Heap composting is the ideal method for large, open spaces.
While it does not require a structure, the recommended dimensions are a width of 5 feet and a height of 3 feet.
Thus, once the heap reaches its recommended height, any additional organic waste is poured along the length of the heap.
These dimensions optimize the heat-retention capacity of the compost pile, which consequently facilitates faster decomposition.
Turning the heap is optional, depending on how long the individual wishes the composting process to take.
4.
Pit Composting This method is most suitable for composting organic waste from the kitchen.
A hole is dug one foot into the soil, after which the food waste is mixed and poured in.
The hole is then covered with additional soil of no less than 8 inches.
Using this method, the rate of decomposition depends on the amount of waste.
As such, it may take between one month and one year.