05/04/24 If you’re a composter, you’ll already know that turning compost can speed up decomposition and improve nutrient quality by introducing oxygen. It’s one reason the famous Berkeley method of composting involves turning compost every other or every third day. But could there be such a thing as too much turning? One study has put […]
Study Finds the Sweet Spot for Turning Compost Read More »
Even in my relatively mild climate, winter temperatures occasionally dip as low as -7°C (19°F), and the surface of compost can freeze. While it’s not a frequent occurrence here, I know many composters live in much colder regions and wonder what happens when their compost piles freeze over. Fortunately, even when your compost seems to
Frozen Compost? Don’t Panic—Here’s What’s Happening Inside Read More »
28/01/24 A new study from the Czech Republic has reinforced the remarkable benefits of surface-applied compost on soil health. Unlike traditional methods that involve tilling compost into the soil, this approach reinforces known benefits by applying stable, mature compost directly to the surface—a method that has shown significant improvements in soil properties over just two
Study Confirms Surface-Applied Compost Outshines Traditional Methods Read More »
If you’re considering composting, you may be wondering whether the money savings are worth the effort. First, it’s worth noting that if you have a large garden and mulch the beds to improve soil structure, those money savings can really add up. But that’s really not the only benefit to homemade compost. So in this
Why Homemade Compost is (Usually) Better Than Store-Bought Compost Read More »
01/25/2025 Bulking agents are essential for successful composting. They create air pockets to help oxygen-loving bacteria thrive, absorb excess moisture, and improve the structure of dense, wet material. Without them, composting can be slow and inefficient. Now a new study published in Nature.com has identified the best bulking agent for home composting – and it’s
Study Finds One Key Ingredient for Faster, Better Compost Read More »
My first compost pile wasn’t great. A corner of my garden behind my garage had three walls around it, and I simply dumped my garden waste there. When I dug down after two years I got compost — but you certainly shouldn’t have to wait that long. After reading dozens of books on composting, I
The Beginner’s Guide to Composting Read More »
At a glance: One of the seminal books on composting, Let It Rot is an entertaining read that mostly demystifies the process, though it’s occasionally let down by confusing or outdated elements. Let It Rot by Stu Campbell has been on my reading list for a while. First published in the 1970s, this book has
Let It Rot Review: Strengths and Flaws of a Composting Classic Read More »
At a glance: The Rodale Book of Composting is overwhelming and under-illustrated for new composters, but the breadth and depth of information makes it the perfect choice for the enthusiast. I’ve had and used the Rodale Book of Composting for years, but I’ve held off reviewing it until now because I had an older edition
Rodale Book of Composting: Best for Enthusiasts Read More »
At a glance: Well-written by someone who knows what they are talking about, but perhaps tries to cover too much in one book. Best suited to people trying to choose a composting system, but will still provide everything you need to get started. After reading a series of underwhelming books on composting, I was relieved
How to Make and Use Compost: Book Review Read More »
At a glance: Compost and Worm Farming has the advantage of being essentially two books in one. However, it’s let down by a lack of images and illustrated plans. While it is more than enough to get you started, there’s better options out there. One of my aims this year is to add more book
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