Composting

All organic matter eventually decomposes. Composting speeds the process by providing an ideal environment for bacteria and other decomposing microorganisms.  The final product looks and feels like fertile garden soil.  This dark, crumbly, earthy-smelling stuff works wonders on all kinds of soil and provides vital nutrients to help plants grow and look better.  It keeps the nutrients were we want them, out of the landfills.  Decomposing organisms need four key elements to thrive: nitrogen, carbon, moisture, and oxygen. For best results, mix materials high in nitrogen (such as clover, fresh grass clippings, and livestock manure) and those high in carbon (such as dried leaves and twigs).

By composting your yard waste you are helping to reduce the waste that is going to landfills.  Yard waste is considered grass clippings, fallen leaves, weeds, straw/hay, sawdust, hedge and tree trimmings and the remains of garden plants.  Roughly 20% of what landfills take in is yard waste.

There are many different styles of composting.  Some of them include holding units, turning units, heaps, sheet composting and pit or trench composting.  Each style has it benefits and choosing the correct style is important to get the most efficient composter for your needs.  We offer 3 different options for compost bins.  Orders are due at the end of every month. 

Illinois Extension has put together a good website and the NRCS tip sheet on composting are good places to locate more information.  You can also check out our Pinterest page for more info on conservation practices.

On the Farm

On the farm, potential waste is turned into a resource that saves money and helps the environment. Producers use livestock manure to fertilize crops. When manure is properly handled, it can be safely applied to the land without the risk of polluting water. Composting is also practiced in some poultry operations. The compost is used as fertilizer on the farms and for lawns and gardens.