About Organic

Composting greatly improves the soil and eliminate the use of herbicides and pesticides in some cases. And brings you a step closer to producing organic produce that is believed to be healthier and safer for consumption. Compost is an organic matter resource that has the unique ability to improve the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of soils or growing media.

Compost can greatly enhance the physical structure of soil. In fine-textured (clay, clay loam) soils, the addition of compost will reduce bulk density, improve friability (workability) and porosity, and increase its gas and water permeability, thus reducing erosion. When used in sufficient quantities, the addition of compost has both an immediate and long-term positive impact on soil structure.

Compost will also improve the cation exchange capacity of soils, enabling them to retain nutrients longer. It will also allow crops to more effectively utilize nutrients, while reducing nutrient loss by leaching. The addition of compost may provide greater drought resistance and more efficient water utilization. Therefore, the frequency and intensity of irrigation may be reduced.

Compost products contain a considerable variety of macro and micronutrients. Although often seen as a good source of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, compost also contains micronutrients essential for plant growth. Since compost contains relatively stable sources of organic matter, these nutrients are supplied in a slow-release form. The activity of soil organisms is essential in productive soils and for healthy plants. Their activity is largely based on the presence of organic matter. Soil microorganisms include bacteria, protozoa, actinomycetes, and fungi. They are not only found within compost, but proliferate within soil media. Disease incidence on many plants may be influenced by the level and type of organic matter and microorganisms present in soils. Research has shown that increased population of certain microorganisms may suppress specific plant diseases such as pythium and fusarium as well as nematodes.

Compost has the ability to bind heavy metals and other contaminants, reducing both their leachability and absorption by plants. Therefore, sites contaminated with various pollutants may often be improved by amending the native soil with compost. The same binding affect allows compost to be used as a filter media for storm water treatment and has been shown to minimize leaching of pesticides in soil systems. Immature composts or ones which possess substances detrimental to plant growth (phytotoxins), are also being tested as an alternative to plastic mulches for vegetable and fruit production. While aiding in moisture conservation and moderating soil temperatures, immature composts also can act as mild herbicides.