How do professionals accelerate compost decomposition?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Expert composters achieve rapid decomposition through proper control of environmental factors. They maintain 130-150°F temperatures in order to kill pathogens and achieve rapid organisms feeding. This heat produces the greatest energetic efficiency among thermophilic bacteria. The correct balance of materials ensures a perfect 30: 1 carbon-nitrogen ratio giving the most correct energy and protein factor for rapid and efficient growth. Reducing the particle size of appreximately 1-2 inches optimizes the surface area for microbial feeding.
Thermal Management
- Method: Insulated bins with temperature probes
- Monitoring: Check temperatures twice daily
- Adjustment: Add water when below 130°F; turn when above 150°F
Material Optimization
- Shredding: Process materials through 1-inch chipper
- Layering: Alternating 4-inch green and brown layers
- Microbial Boosters: Add comfrey or finished compost inoculant
Aeration Systems
- Forced Air: PVC pipe networks with blowers
- Passive Design: Base pallets with air channels
- Turning Schedule: Professional tumblers rotated daily
Temperature management is a key component of rapid composting. The professionals here use long-stem thermometers which penetrate 18 inches above the ground. Below 130 degrees Fahrenheit, the decay is slowed down; above 160 degrees, the microorganisms die. The turning processes take place at the corresponding points of temperature. It is kept at 140 degrees Fahrenheit by watering it in hot, dry weather.
Material preparation increases the efficiency of breakdown. Shredding increases surface area greatly. Chippers are used for branches, and paper shredders are used for cardboard. Equal parts of green material, such as vegetable scraps, should be used with brown material, such as wood chips. Add microbial accelerators such as comfrey tea or composted material to the mixture to serve as a starter culture.
Aeration of a compost pile prevents anaerobic compaction. Commercial-type aeration systems use a perforated PVC pipe at the base of the pile. Others have turning machines, such as front-end loaders. Private systems can utilize tumblers, which should be rotated daily. Always be sure to aerate when the temperature is warm and cooler temperatures are approaching. This keeps the aerobic bacteria in their optimal form.
Moisture control is closely linked to other techniques. Maintain 50-60% moisture content. One drop should appear on the squeeze tests. Cover piles from heavy rains and water during dry periods. Professional facilities utilize moisture-measuring devices. Home composters can use hand squeeze tests effectively.
Read the full article: Choosing the Best Compost for Gardens
