Fundamentals of Agricultural Composting

The composting process requires optimum levels of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and water. Composted raw materials should be thoroughly mixed to the optimum carbon and nitrogen ratio (C:N ratio). 

Fundamentals of Agricultural Composting

The composting process should be aerobic. The particle size of these materials should allow for good mixing and ensure good airflow throughout the pile or pile. Airflow is required to provide oxygen to the microbes that will be active in the compost and to release carbon dioxide and other gases produced during the decomposition process. Microorganisms in compost need water to maintain their life functions.

During the composting process, heat, water (H 2 O), carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) and ammonia (NH 3 ) are released into the air. Ammonia losses are greatest during the first few days of composting with high temperatures and low C:N ratios.

Most plant or animal materials contain some amount of carbon and nitrogen. Raw materials with a high carbon/nitrogen (C:N) ratio are sometimes referred to as carbon materials or bulky materials, as most are coarser and allow better aeration. 

Raw materials with a low C:N ratio can be referred to as nitrogen materials in the compost mix. To make good compost, several materials often need to be mixed in proper proportions to achieve the optimum C:N ratio and moisture. 

The optimum range of C:N ratios for composting is often reported as 25:1 to 30:1, but can range from 20:1 to 40:1 depending on materials and conditions. When wood chips are used as bulk material, the optimum C:N ratio may be slightly higher, as woody materials contain more lignin and are very slow to decompose. Optimum humidity levels are 50-60% (by weight) but ranges from 45% to 70% can be used under certain conditions.

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