Compost Science

In the dense, buzzing rainforests of Central and South America, an extraordinary story of mutual survival is unfolding in the canopies. Meet the Azteca ants and their Cecropia tree hosts—partners in one of nature’s most fascinating composting systems. A partnership built over millenia The Azteca-Cecropia relationship is a relationship that has developed over millions of […]

Back in the 19th century, Albert Howard, considered one of the fathers of composting, was a big fan of adding lime to compost.  In recent decades, though, the practice has been discouraged by many composters who see it as unnecessary.  After all, lime is alkaline. While compost goes through some major pH swings, it usually

Would you ever use fresh compost in the garden? One friend of mine did, and used to wax lyrical about the benefit of free municipal compost.  “It’s still hot, James – it warms the soil in the spring!” Much as I loved him, he was completely wrong in this case! Fresh compost can be high

2nd May 2023 Gardeners and farmers alike are suffering from the effects of climate change.  As heat waves sweep across the world, water levels are dropping – and tomato yields are particularly affected.  However, a new study may have the answer – at least for tomatoes.  Morrocan researchers compared the use of conventional chemical fertilizers