Why Compost?

Composting is an aerobic biological decomposition process where microorganisms break down and convert raw organic materials (plant and animal) into relatively stable humus-like materials to improve soil chemical, biological, and physical characteristics (Figure 1). Composting serves as both a waste management method and a product manufacturer allowing for dual-streams of revenue. Composters can pursue revenue on the front-end by charging a “tipping fee” for acceptance of waste material or feedstocks as well as on the back-end once the resulting product(s), or compost, is sold. The horticultural industry is the primary consumer of compost in the world. Therefore, the composting process represents the most widespread recycling technology of organic waste in agriculture.

Figure 1. Windrow composting of yard waste, Naples, FL. Credit: Monica Hampton.

Benefits of Compost

Horticultural:

· Improves soil fertility (CEC, water holding capacity, better soil structure)

· Used as a carrier of Bio stimulants, Pesticides, Fumigants and Nutrients.

· Increases yield by improving root development and plant growth.

Environmental:

· Prevents nutrient runoff.

· Carbon sequestration.

· Helps growers meet federal and local regulations.

· Keeps soil structure by significantly reducing soil erosion.

· Enables farmers and landscapers to implement precision agriculture techniques. (drip irrigation, control release and liquid fertilizers 4 R concept: Right place, Right time, Right source and Right rate.)

· Reduces pesticide applications by improving pesticide efficacy.

· Reduces CO emissions by requiring less tractor and pump operating time. (drip irrigation instead of sip irrigation , no need for multiple applications of fertilizers and pesticides).

· Helps maintaining water aquifer quality.