Beware of poorly made composting: when fertilizer can harm your garden

The pursuit of a more sustainable lifestyle and a passion for growing their own food have led many enthusiasts to composting. And they need to be careful not to overdo it.

However, this noble initiative can become a nightmare for your garden if the poorly done composting enter the scene.

Far from being a mere deposit of organic waste, the decomposition process requires technique and attention. One mistake here, and what was supposed to be the "black gold" of your garden can turn into a slow-burning poison.

Quality organic fertilizer is an irreplaceable ally for soil health and the lush development of plants.

It improves soil structure, increases water and nutrient retention, and promotes beneficial microbial life.

However, inadequate compost can introduce pathogens, weeds, and toxic substances directly into your soil.

Composting is an art that replicates the natural processes of decomposition. When done well, it transforms food scraps and plant material into a rich, stable product.

Ignoring basic principles can create an environment conducive to unwanted microorganisms.

When Compost Becomes a Problem

Imagine an orchestra where each musician plays their own melody, without harmony. The result is cacophony.

Likewise, in an unbalanced compost heap, microorganisms do not work in sync.

Lack of aeration, inadequate moisture, or unbalanced proportions of carbon- and nitrogen-rich materials lead to an anaerobic process.

This oxygen-free environment favors the proliferation of bacteria that produce unwanted compounds.

The unpleasant smell, common in piles of poorly done composting, is a clear sign that something is wrong.

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The Dangers of Unbalanced Composting

THE poorly done composting can cause a number of problems for your garden. Let's explore some of the most common and harmful ones.

Spread of Pathogens

A compost heap that does not reach temperatures high enough for pasteurization can become a breeding ground for pathogens.

Fungi, bacteria, and viruses that cause plant diseases can survive. Applying this contaminated compost can spread disease to your healthy crops.

A classic example is the fungus Phytophthora infestans, which causes potato downy mildew.

If infected plant debris is not composted properly, the spores can persist in the compost and infect new plants.

Weeds and Unwanted Seeds

Many weed seeds are incredibly resilient. If the compost pile doesn't reach and maintain a high temperature for long enough, these seeds won't be killed.

By spreading compost, you'll unintentionally seed weeds in your garden, creating more work and competition for nutrients.

Consider clover or dandelion seeds. If they persist in the compost, your garden will become a battlefield against these unwanted plants.

Toxicity and Excessive Acidity

Improper decomposition can produce substances that are toxic to plants. Volatile organic compounds, such as alcohols and organic acids, can accumulate to harmful levels.

Additionally, anaerobic decomposition can lead to a very low pH, making the soil excessively acidic and inhibiting nutrient uptake by the roots.

Imagine that the soil is the plant's stomach. If you feed it spoiled or overly acidic food, it won't be able to digest what it needs.

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How to Identify a Problem Compound

A quality compost should have a damp earthy smell, be dark in color, and have a uniform texture.

If your compost smells like rot, ammonia, or sewage, or if you can still identify the original materials, it's not ready. poorly done composting has clear signs.

Also note the presence of large numbers of unwanted insects. Flies, for example, may indicate that decomposition is generating a lot of putrefactive material.

The Importance of Temperature in Composting

One of the most important indicators of efficient composting is the internal temperature of the pile.

Thermophilic microorganisms, which thrive in high temperatures, are responsible for the rapid decomposition and elimination of pathogens and weed seeds.

To give you an idea, Cornell University's research on home composting recommends that the pile reach and maintain temperatures above 55°C for at least three days to effectively pasteurize the material.

Good Practices to Avoid Problems

Avoid the poorly done composting It's simpler than it seems. Just follow a few essential guidelines.

Carbon-Nitrogen (C:N) Balance

The ideal carbon-to-nitrogen ratio is crucial. Carbon-rich materials (brown, dry) provide energy for microorganisms.

Nitrogen-rich materials (green, moist) provide protein. A good rule of thumb is a ratio of 25–30 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen.

Examples of carbon-rich materials: dry leaves, chopped branches, straw, cardboard.

Examples of nitrogen-rich materials: food scraps, grass clippings, fresh manure.

Adequate Aeration

Turning your pile regularly is vital to ensure oxygen supply. Aeration prevents compaction and the establishment of anaerobic conditions. At a minimum, turn your pile once a week.

Right Humidity

The moisture in the pile should be like that of a wrung-out sponge: damp but not dripping. Too much water can cause anaerobiosis, while too little water slows the process.

Material Size

Chopping materials into smaller pieces increases the surface area for microorganisms to touch, speeding up decomposition. Large branches, for example, will take a long time to decompose.

The Path to a Healthy Garden

Composting is an incredibly rewarding practice that closes the nutrient cycle and naturally enriches the soil.

Don't be intimidated by the initial challenges. With a little knowledge and attention, you'll turn your waste into a treasure for your plants.

The journey of poorly done composting for excellent composting is a continuous learning process.

After all, you invest so much time and care in your garden, why not ensure that the food you provide it is of the highest quality?

Take care of your compost, and it will take care of your garden, providing abundant and healthy harvests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my compost smell bad?

An unpleasant odor usually indicates that the pile is too wet, compacted, or has too much nitrogen.

This creates an anaerobic environment, which favors the production of foul-smelling gases like hydrogen sulfide. Solution: Turn the pile to aerate it and add more dry carbon-rich materials.

Can I compost any type of food scraps?

Not all. Avoid meats, dairy, oils, and fats, as they can attract pests and generate strong odors. Leftover bread and pasta should also be added in moderation.

Waste from diseased plants or weed seeds should also be avoided unless you are certain your pile reaches temperatures high enough to neutralize them.

How long does it take for compost to be ready?

The time varies greatly depending on conditions and materials. Well-managed piles, with proper turning and balancing, can produce ready-made compost in 2–3 months.

In colder climates or with less management, it can take six months to a year. The compost is ready when it has a dark color, an earthy smell, and the original materials are no longer identifiable.