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What are the factors that
determine how long it takes for organic material to
become useful compost?
- The size of materials being
placed in the composting system.
- The carbon to nitrogen (C:N)
ratio of materials placed in the composting system.
- The level of
management/attention paid to the composting process.
- The intended use for
finished compost.
- All of the above.
Sorry, the correct answer is
"e. All of the
above."
A backyard composting system may
yield finished soil-like compost in two to three months.
This can be accomplished by using small organic pieces
less than 2", a mixture of organic materials with a
carbon to nitrogen ratio of approximately 30:1, and an
actively managed system (where the pile is turned one to
two times per week and monitored for correct moisture
content and temperature). More time is needed to produce
compost if less attention is paid to material size, C:N
ratio, and active management.
Compost that will be used as a mulch
will be ready for use more quickly than compost that
will be incorporated into the soil for immediate
planting.
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