Compost

For the process of producing compost see composting

File:Real Compost.jpg

A handful of compost

A double-wide bin with compost at different stages of decomposition

Compost is the aerobically decomposed remnants of organic materials (those with plant and animal origins). Compost is used in gardening and agriculture as a soil amendment, and commercially by the landscaping and container nursery industries. It is also used for erosion control, land/stream reclamation, wetland construction, and as landfill cover (see compost uses). Compost is also used as a seed starting medium generally mixed with a small portion of sand for improved drainage.

Compost ingredients

Given enough time, all biodegradable material will compost. However, not all compost feedstocks are appropriate for backyard composting. Most backyard systems will not reach high enough temperatures to kill pathogens or deter vermin, so pet droppings, non-vegetarian animal manure, scraps of meat, and dairy products are best left to operators of high-rate, thermophilic composting systems.

British composting standard

The British Composting Association worked to establish an industry standard for the composts, the BSI PAS 100 certified by the British Standards Institute. The specification covers the entire process; from raw materials and production methods, through quality control and lab testing ensuring certified composts are quality assured traceable safe and reliable.

Compost types and ingredients

• Biodegradable waste
• Coffee grounds
• Compost tea
• Effective Microorganisms
• Green waste
• Humanure
• Humus
• Leaf mold
• Mulch
• Spent mushroom compost
• Worm compost

See also

• Anaerobic digestion
• Composting
• Composting toilet
• List of composting systems
• Mechanical biological treatment
• Soil conditioner
• Waste management