Composting
Turning kitchen scraps, manure, and yard waste into the soil your garden runs on. Piles, bins, worms, and getting the mix right.
4 resources, reviewed and organized by SteadScape.
Composting guides and articles
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The Easiest Way to Make Leaf Mold to Improve Your Soil
Leaf mold is a beneficial soil amendment created by the slow decomposition of leaves, primarily driven by fungi. This process is simple and requires minimal effort, making it an excellent way to recycle yard waste. To create leaf mold, gardeners should start with a large quantity of leaves, ideally smaller varieties that decompose faster. Shredding larger leaves can expedite the process. The leaves should be gathered in sturdy, opaque bags, moistened lightly, and stored in a dry, dark place to promote fungal growth. The decomposition time varies from six months to two years, depending on leaf type and shredding. Once ready, leaf mold can be used as mulch or incorporated into soil to enhance its structure and microbial activity. This method not only improves soil health but also reduces waste, making it a sustainable gardening practice.
How to Keep Persistent Herbicides Out of Your Compost Bin
Compost can easily be contaminated with persistent herbicide which may harm your garden. Learn the cause and how to keep it out of your compost bin. The post How to Keep Persistent Herbicides Out of Your Compost Bin appeared first on Tenth Acre Farm.
How to Source Herbicide-Free Compost Soil
The article discusses the importance of sourcing herbicide-free compost soil for organic gardening, highlighting the risks of persistent herbicides contaminating commercially produced compost. It outlines essential questions to ask compost producers to ensure the quality and safety of their products. The author shares personal experiences with compost sourcing and emphasizes the need for accountability in composting facilities regarding herbicide testing. The article aims to educate gardeners on how to avoid herbicide contamination, which can adversely affect plant growth and yields. By understanding the potential risks and knowing what to inquire about, gardeners can make informed decisions when purchasing compost soil for their gardens.
7 Comfrey Uses in the Permaculture Garden
Comfrey is a highly beneficial plant in permaculture gardening, known for its ability to enrich soil and support healthy crop growth. This article outlines seven practical uses for comfrey, including activating compost, serving as green manure, and providing nutrient-rich mulch. Comfrey's large leaves can enhance compost piles by balancing carbon-to-nitrogen ratios, while its powdered form can be mixed into soil to boost nutrient availability. Additionally, comfrey can be used to brew nutrient-rich tea for plants and as a natural mulch to retain soil moisture. The article emphasizes the versatility of comfrey in promoting soil health and plant vitality, making it an essential addition to any permaculture garden. Readers will learn how to effectively incorporate comfrey into their gardening practices for improved soil and plant health.