Busting Composting Myths

GUEST

• Justin Rohner/Agriscaping.com

COMMENTARY

• Myth: Compost piles smell bad
  • A properly managed compost pile does not have to stink
  • Correct layering balancing “greens” (wet, nitrogen-rich) and “browns” (dry, carbon-rich) is key for healthy compost
  • Ideal compost mixture: 30 parts brown carbon matter to 1 part green nitrogen matter to eliminate odor

GARDENING NOTE

• Full moon phases can accelerate seed sprouting due to atmospheric and gravitational effects

Space And Worm Bins

COMMENTARY

• Myth: Composting needs plenty of space and time
• Myth: Composting takes a lot of time
  • Vermicomposting is introduced as an efficient, odor-free, space-saving composting method using worms
  • Discussing small worm bins suggestions
  • Proper layering with shredded cardboard and moisture control can produce rich compost in a very short period of time

SIDE NOTE

• The Queen Creek Botanical Gardens has lost their home location. How you can help to find a new place for the gardens

More Myths To Bust

COMMENTARY

• Myth: Compost attracts vermin and bugs
  • Dry pockets of compost material is inviting for rats and mice
  • Too much moisture invites cockroaches and crickets
  • Turning compost to balancing moisture and dry materials
• Myth:  Compost replaces fertilizer
  • Compost alone doesn’t provide all nutrients
  • Fertilizer supplements remain necessary