 Municipal Yard Waste Composting What? |
What is Composting?
Fundamentals of Successful CompostingOrganic materials: Leaves can be composted alone or mixed with grass clippings in a ratio of three parts leaves to one part grass. Oxygen: Aerobic organisms - those requiring oxygen - compost most efficiently. By controlling oxygen levels in a compost system, you can help speed up the composting process and reduce the potential for odors. Moisture: The moisture level in composting materials should be about 50 percent. During composting, materials should feel moist and emit a few drops of water when squeezed with one hand. Temperature: Temperatures in the cent of composting piles should range from 90 degrees to 140 degrees as organic materials begin to break down. pH balance: pH is a measure of acidity. Finished compost should have a nearly neutral pH value, in the six to eight pH range. If materials become too acidic during composting, lime or other alkaline products can be added.
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Composting is a method of solid waste management where organic
components such as leaves, grass, and brush are biologically decomposed
under controlled conditions to produce a useful end product.