Is Your Compost Struggling? Signs It’s Time to Use a Compost Starter
"In the process of composting, microorganisms break down organic matter and produce carbon dioxide, water, heat, and humus, the relatively stable organic end product." (Source: Cornell Composting)
Composting can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not always smooth sailing to achieve that rich end product. If you’ve been composting for a while and aren’t seeing the results you expected, your compost might need a little help.
In this blog, we’ll identify common signs that your compost pile could benefit from a starter and how it can help turn things around.
Slow Decomposition
If your compost pile seems to be taking forever to break down, that’s a clear sign something’s not right. Slow decomposition can be caused by a lack of microorganisms or an imbalance in the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. A compost starter introduces a rich mix of microbes and nutrients that can kick-start the composting process, speeding things up considerably.
Unpleasant Odoors
While composting does produce some natural smells, an overly pungent odor could indicate that your pile isn’t decomposing properly. This often happens when there’s too much moisture or not enough oxygen, leading to anaerobic conditions. EarthSmart Solution's Compost Starter - ESCS is designed to work in both aerobic and anaerobic environments, helping to balance your compost pile and reduce unpleasant smells.
Temperature Issues
A healthy compost pile should generate heat as microorganisms break down organic matter. If your pile isn’t heating up, or if the temperature fluctuates too much, it could mean the microbial activity is low. Adding a compost starter can reintroduce the necessary microbes and nutrients to get your pile back on track.
Pest Problems
Pests like flies, rodents, and other critters are drawn to improperly maintained compost piles. If you’re noticing an influx of pests, it could be a sign that your compost isn’t decomposing quickly enough. EarthSmart Solution's Compost Starter - ESCS can help speed up the process, making your compost less attractive to pests by rapidly breaking down organic matter.
Conclusion:
"To gardeners, compost is considered "black gold" because of its many benefits in the garden. Compost is a great material for garden soil. Adding compost to clay soils makes them easier to work and plant. In sandy soils, the addition of compost improves the water holding capacity of the soil. By adding organic matter to the soil, compost can help improve plant growth and health." (Source: University of Illinois Extension)
If your compost is showing signs of struggle—whether it’s slow decomposition, bad smells, temperature issues, or pests—using a compost starter like ESCS can make a world of difference. By adding the right blend of nutrients and microorganisms, ESCS helps create a healthier, faster, and more efficient composting process.
Please contact us at 1-866-444-7174 or email info@earth-smart-solutions.com if you have any questions on our products. We would love to hear from you!
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