Aerobic composting is a very popular method for creating garden variety compost. This type of composting doesn’t emit an unpleasant odor and, with the proper conditions, can be completed in a span of two weeks. In contrast, anaerobic composting usually takes up to 3 months. Aerobic composting uses oxygen to biologically decompose waste materials in a controlled condition until it stabilizes so it can be utilized. Many factors will determine how long and how nutrient rich your compost will be. They include the materials used, the temperature, the moisture content, and aeration.Aerobic Composting Materials
Both carbon and nitrogen rich organic materials are used for aerobic composting. The optimum ration is 25 or 30 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen. Examples of carbon sources are leaves, wood chips, and sawdust. Examples of nitrogen sources include grass, food waste, and livestock manure. These materials are decomposed by organisms utilizing oxygen.
Aerobic composting is very common in nature. If you have been in a forest, you may have seen this occurring right on the forest floor. Dried leaves and fruit droppings, along with animal manure, simply decompose aerobically and result in a fine humus, organic matter that is good for the soil and promotes plant growth.
Aerobic Composting Steps
Begin by digging a pit in your backyard or lawn. The size of your pit would be dependent on the waste materials available for use in your compost pile. Gather the materials and pile them up in the pit. You can run your lawnmower over dried leaves to shred them into smaller pieces which will increase the rate of decomposition.
While the temperature of the compost pile will tend to fluctuate depending on the stage it’s going through, ideal compost temperature ranges from 125 - 160°F. The pile needs to reach this high heat in order to kill pathogens and weed seeds. When the compost is ready, the pile will reach the ambient temperature, the compost will become dark brown or black, and the consistency will become soil-like.
Since aerobic composting needs moisture and oxygen in order to decompose properly, you more than likely will need to add water to the compost pile. The recommended moisture content is between 45 – 65% with a lower moisture content as the compost is completing its cycle. If you see that your compost pile is dry, you may add more water. If the pile is too wet, you will want to add more dry materials.
Remember to frequently turn the pile for the aeration process. This turning of the pile incorporates more oxygen in the compost. Turning it once a day assures of a faster rate of decomposition. You may also cover the compost pile with a tarp or old plastic sheet to protect it from drying very quickly. Just leave the sides open for aeration.
Aerobic Composting Benefits
Aerobic composting is one way to reduce your waste and add something beneficial to the earth. Instead of adding to the landfill, you are now saving money by producing your own nutrient-rich chemical-free fertilizer.
