Composting is the process of taking organic matter and materials that are essentially waste and turning them back into soil—not just any soil, though. Composting turns said materials into nutrient-rich goodness that promotes all things living. This process quite literally impacts everyone on the planet and has the potential to improve the earth and sustain life.
How is it done?
Compost can occur in a natural setting or in a manual process. For example, our trees and plants in the forest compost in a very natural way. Leaves fall to the ground, shrubs die, seeds collect, and then, each of these begins to decompose. Naturally, they become part of the soil on the ground, and the break down from their previous state ends up feeding and nourishing the plant life and vegetation in the forest.
Likewise, farmers and gardeners compost, but through a little bit more effort. They collect grass clippings, vegetables, peels from veggies, eggshells, sawdust, shredded newspaper, fruit peel, coffee grounds, and anything that is not animal-based. From here, they apply a little bit of heat, a small amount of moisture, turning the compost regularly. This is usually done in a compost bin of some sort. Regular turning is crucial for the prevention of mold. Then, as time goes on, they eventually have created a very rich, nutrient, and mineral-based topsoil. When added to their plants, they see amazing results.
Worm bins are becoming increasingly popular, though, not anything new. These fascinating organisms employ eating and reproductive habits that break down organic materials and help enrich the soil.
Benefits of Compost
It absorbs and stores water that plants need to grow. Potentially, in a drought situation, compost can provide the necessary moisture to sustain life for plants.
Compost creates healthy soil. It puts the nutrients and minerals back into depleted soil, so that it’s the perfect recipe for richness. It promotes the growth of healthy bacteria and fungi, which in turn break down organic matter. It also adds to the natural nitrogen cycle, which is what our plants need in order to grow.
Healthy Soil Creates Healthy Food
Composting is almost like a chain reaction. It creates healthy soil, which in turn creates healthy food. When added to topsoil, compost sets up plants to develop and grow at their finest. Crops flourish and we reap the benefits of delicious vegetables, which promote a healthy body and mind. How different life would be if we were unable to purchase the fruits and vegetables that our bodies need at the grocery store? This is probably a process that we all take for granted and don’t realize just how much we depend on this.
Excess Carbon Absorption From the Air
Healthy soil has the ability to remove excess carbon from the air and store it in the ground. Isn’t that amazing?! Trees and plants can then absorb this excess, as they grow from the rich soil that is produced from the compost. We see that chain reaction because we all need trees for oxygen so that we can breathe.
Lessens the Need for Chemical Fertilizers
Because compost promotes such healthy soil that produces such amazing results, farmers often choose this path, versus chemical fertilizers that put toxins in our food supply. Composting is literally a natural and organic fertilizer. It’s better for the environment and it saves money for these farmers.
When people compost, they help eliminate these materials from going to the landfill, which we know is a huge dilemma. We’re running out of space for our garbage. Besides occupying space at the landfill, they also release methane.
Earth Preservation, Healthy Oceans, and Water Supply
Again, the chain reaction is visible. Because farmers are not using chemical fertilizers when they get the same results, if not better, from composting; our streams, waterways, and oceans are healthier and safer. They’re safer for people to drink, safer to water our plants and yards, and safer for the marine life that lives in the water. It’s a win-win all around.
As you can see, composting has many, many benefits not only for your lawn but for the environment. If you are interested in utilizing compost for healthy plant growth in your yard or garden but do not have the time or resources to create your own compost, Asphalt Materials can help. Contact us for more information on the rich composts that we provide.