The best compost carbon source
The method of composting, if you want it to rot quickly and well, the choice of carbon source is the key. Making good use of various things can greatly increase the effectiveness of composting.
1. Fallen leaves
In autumn, wood leaves fall, which is a good material for composting. Fallen leaves are rich in carbon and loose. In the pile, it can increase pores, pass air, and facilitate the reproduction of microorganisms. And with its decomposition, it slowly releases carbon, which is needed by bacteria and helps the compost to mature. Such as maple, poplar, and elm leaves, can be used. After collection, slightly chopped, mixed in the pile, one layer of leaves and one layer of other stacks, layers of each other, can promote the composting process.
Second, hay
Hay is also a good carbon source. After sun exposure, its carbon content is quite high. The hay is long and tough, interwoven in the pile, which can prevent the pile from being compacted and maintain good aeration. However, when using hay, it should be noted that if it is too dry, it can be watered first, and it should be short to facilitate mixing with other materials. In the compost, it is gradually decomposed by microorganisms, contributing carbon to the compost, making the compost more fertile.
Third, sawdust
Sawdust from woodworking can also be used as a compost carbon source. Sawdust is light in texture and has many pores, which can improve the compost structure. However, the decomposition of sawdust is slightly slower, and the dosage should be moderate. If it is too much, it is easy to cause the compost carbon-nitrogen ratio to be unbalanced and affect the fermentation. When used, it should be mixed with high-nitrogen materials such as fresh grass, manure, etc., and adjusted to a suitable carbon-nitrogen ratio, in order to exert its effect, so that the compost can decompose smoothly and its fertility will gradually grow.
Fourth, straw
Straw
Straw, such as wheat straw and rice straw, is a common agricultural waste and a good carbon source for compost. Straw is rich in carbon, but its waxy layer on the skin makes it slightly difficult to decompose. Therefore, before use, it should be crushed or cut into sections to increase the contact area with microorganisms. When composting, it is mixed with nitrogen-containing materials, such as human and animal manure, to provide balanced nutrients for microorganisms, accelerate the decomposition of straw, and convert it into high-quality compost, which is fertile soil.
To sum up, fallen leaves, hay, sawdust, and straw are all good carbon sources for composting. Good selection and collocation, according to the principle of composting, composting is easy to become, soil productivity can be increased, and it is good for agriculture and gardens.