Compost
Compost is decomposed organic matter, managed to:
- grow beneficial microbes
- concentrate nutrients
- build humus
The benefits of compost as a soil amendment include:
- improved soil structure
- increased water holding capacity
- improved soil aeration
- slow-release fertility
- stimulation of plant growth.
Compost can be made in open windrows or enclosed bins; both approaches can be found on the Cannon Hort Plots.
Composting, and field applications of compost, are regular parts of the fertility program on the Cannon Hort Plots. Both are commonly covered during beginning farmer and resilient farmer trainings.
Related Publications and Videos
On-Farm Composting and Vermicomposting
This presentation discusses the composting options for fertility in market farming/gardening.
Compost Presentation Notes
This handout includes a table of different compost feedstocks and their approximate carbon-to-nitrogen ratios.
Compost & Soil Humus Resource List
Hot Composting with the Berkeley Method
This intern report describes the results of a summer project that attempted to make finished compost in 14 days using the Berkeley method.
Worming the Way to a Greener Future: Vermicomposting for Municipal Organic Waste Disposal
This paper, by a former Kerr Center intern, explores the pros and cons of large-scale vermicomposting.
On-Farm Mortality Composting of Livestock Carcasses
Vermicomposting at Kerr Center I
Composting with earthworms– the basics. Consultant Luke Freeman explains how vermicomposting works and details of the Kerr Center project. The center’s Canon Organic Horticulture Project uses vermicompost in its soil building program. Also featuring Kerr Center intern Jon Pollnow.
How to Make Compost, with Luke Freeman
Learn how to make compost with Luke Freeman at the Kerr Center.
Vermicomposting II- Bins & Management
Discussion of vermicompost bins: commercial black plastic, cinderblock sides and straw/hay bale sides. Pros and cons of each, Kerr Center experience, and discussion of how to manage the worms.
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