Content
- How long do the rotting processes in the compost last?
- The three development phases
- reduction phase
- rebuilding phase
- Construction and cooling phase
- Fresh compost and ripe compost
Compost decomposition can be divided into three phases
How long do the rotting processes in the compost last?
A well-matured compost needs time so that the soil organisms can produce the fine crumb structure. But before you can use the compost for soil care.
The three development phases
reduction phase
Begin the spring by setting up the compost heap so that the contents can rot over the summer. In the first one to two weeks, the dismantling phase runs. There are high temperatures inside the compost heap, which are between 60 and 70 degrees Celsius. Rotting processes in this temperature range are called hot rotting. Temperatures are caused by the activity of bacteria and yeasts, which break down carbohydrates and proteins. The high temperatures kill off germs and bacteria and ensure that the seeds are killed by weeds.
rebuilding phase
After the hot rotting begins the conversion phase, which lasts about four to five weeks. Turmeric mushrooms settle in the compost, converting fats and waxes into brown humic substances. The temperatures in the compost gradually cool down.
Construction and cooling phase
In the third and final phase, construction and cooling processes take place. This phase lasts several months depending on the weather conditions. The soil fauna, consisting of worms, mites and woodlice, mince the organic material and decompose it into compost soil.
Fresh compost and ripe compost
After about three to four months you can already use the coarse compost. Compost soil contains unrubbed plant parts such as shredded shrubs of shrubs or other plant residues containing cellulose. This fresh compost is used for soil care. You can use it for mulching and apply as a protective layer on harvested beds. During this time, you can shift the compost to accelerate the rotting.
During the summer the compost continues to ripen. Under optimal conditions, mature compost develops after about four to six months. Since the conditions usually vary, you need to plan for the development of crumbly soil with a fresh smell of forest soil six to twelve months. If you start the compost in the fall, then the rotting processes rest on the cold winter. This compost takes longer to fully mature.
After one year, the cycle starts again. The last remnants of the organic substances are degraded. This stale substrate is ideal for growing seedlings and potting soil.