If your compost doesn’t get hot, don’t despair! A new study suggests that longer, cooler composting periods can create compost as good as compost produced at full heat levels. That said, there are several things you need to be aware of to achieve quality. The good thing is none of them require much extra effort. […]
Compost Slow? Science Says It Doesn’t Matter! Read More »
12th Feb 2025 New research has shown that many bagged peat-free composts struggle to produce good results. The research was conducted at the UK’s Stockbridge Technology Centre (STC), an independent agricultural and horticultural center of excellence. The researchers bought bagged compost from a variety of sources, including online retailers, garden centers, and DIY stores. To
Many Peat-Free Composts Don’t Make the Grade Says Research Facility Read More »
There are many composting books out there, but only a handful make this list. That’s because some books can be misleading, poorly written, or inaccurate, while others are adequate. Only a few truly stand out as excellent. Of course, the best book for you depends on your needs. That’s why in this round up I’ve
My Top 6 Composting Book Picks for 2026 Read More »
At a glance: A solid composting book by a true expert, Dowding’s years of experience shine through with practical advice. However, casual gardeners and those wishing for a wide range of composting techniques might wish to explore other options. Full disclosure: I’m a huge fan of Charles Dowding. I discovered his website on NoDig well
Charles Dowding’s Compost: Book Review Read More »
When I was a kid, my weakest subjects were often science. Humanities weren’t so bad because I loved reading, but when a teacher droned on about science, I retreated into a daydream. The best lessons were interactive—whether it was talking or doing an experiment. I’m pretty sure it’s not just me. During my decade as
Should Schools Teach Kids to Compost? Read More »
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 »