Subject: Re: [NAFEX] P.S. to adding organic matter
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2007 13:56:24 -0500
Yeah Jim, that should work where the ambient temperature doesn't allow
oxidation/fermentation by as many microbes as are present in warmer
climates. Temperatures in an un-turned compost heap here will rise to the
lethal point for nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Swamps demonstrate what happens
in cooler climates versus warmer climates. Decomposition of organic material
in southern swamps proceeds at a much more rapid rate than that in northern
swamps. The noxious smells emanating from compost piles and swamps is due
gases produced by microbes. More microbes and warmer temperatures cause the
production of more gases. We are trying to control temperatures as well as
trying to ensure complete and rapid decomposition. Unturned compost invites
slime molds and other undesirable micro-organisms when the compost reaches
temperatures over 90ºF. Temperatures of compost piles should be in the 70
to 90ºF for the most efficient production of the desired organic soil
additive. Composting methods should be adjusted to allow for differences in
expected temperatures. Here, we worry about baking the desired organisms.
So, your method obviously works for you there. I would have to use
refrigeration to emulate your conditions. Un-turned compost here turns into
a slimy malodorous maggot- ridden mass reminding one of an opossum road kill
in Florida after a day or two.
Doc