Compost in some cases can become something that, instead of helping our plants and soil, will effectively destroy them. It turns out that sometimes it can acidify and contaminate the ground, and in addition it can destroy the structure of the roots of plants. Check what it results from and how to prevent it.
Composting is a natural process that involves the distribution of organic matter with the participation of microorganisms. However, to make it run properlythree conditions must be met – this is the right humidity, the diverse composition of the pile, as well as the presence of oxygen. In the event that one of them is disturbed, it can result in anaerobic ferment. This means that our compost, instead of maturing, will start to rot.
Usually this problem arises when oxygen is lacking in the pile. It happens when the compost is too wet, for example, after heavy rains or too abundant . Then it is the mass, which is in the composter, is broken and forms a compact form to which the air does not get in and fermentation.
Toxic compounds then produce, which will not only not serve our plants, but also harm them. What’s more, such a compost has an acidic reaction and has no correct structureSo it’s better not to use it in the garden so as not to weaken our specimens.
So it’s worth knowing how to recognize compost that is not suitable for use. Therefore, before applying it, we must pay attention to several aspectsthanks to which we will be able to determine this. Here they are:
- Smell – A good compost has the smell of forest, soil and freshness. In the event that it has an acidic aroma, and we also feel a musty or slurry, it is a sign that the decomposition process has not run properly.
- Temperature – It should be quite high, but not exceed 70 degrees Celsius. Such a compost could lose its value, and useful microorganisms in it will become extinct.
- Structure – The right structure of the compost should be loose and plump. In the event that he is compact, sticky and wet, it should worry us.
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Fortunately, the broken compost can still be repaired if we react early enough. In the event that we have noticed the above disturbing symptoms, we can take a few steps that will save the situation. It would be a good idea to transfer the entire prism because the aeration will stop fermentation.
It is also worth adding some dry material that will restore balance. We can use cardboard or dry leaves. Let’s also remember to protect the compost against rainfallcovering it with a tarpaulin when rain is forecast. In addition, let’s constantly control the temperature and humidity in the composter.
