Composting is a controlled, aerobic (oxygenated) process that converts organic materials into a nutrient-rich, biologically-stable soil amendment or mulch through natural decomposition. At Community Gardens at Oak Grove, we utilize two large wood and wire composting bins at the garden.
There, our gardeners put garden detritus (plant trimmings and other organic matter) into the bins. Basically, we put in a balanced mix of “browns” (carbon-rich materials) and “greens” (nitrogen-rich materials), along with water (rain) and oxygen (air). Over time, the organic matter breaks down into a rich soil that is then added or tilled back into the garden soil or used as mulch.
The application of compost discourages plant pathogens, pests and weeds, balances soil density, and adds and retains nutrients in the soil. Composting is compatible and consistent with organic farming or gardening methods, which we encourage at Oak Grove.