Compost Time scales in composting With regard to the amount of time needed for composting there are essentially three types of compost; - fresh compost (2/4 months for a compost heap): compost that is still undergoing a biological transformation. This product is still rich in basic nutritional elements and is excellent for fertilizing the soil and plant nutrition, due to the ease with which it releases these elements during the further transformations it is subjected to. It can be used in allotments either some time after sowing or after replantation of the crop; - ready compost (5/8 months): this is compost which is already stable and is no longer producing heat. Because the transformations are slower, it has a less pronounced fertilizing effect. It can be used in allotments and gardens immediately prior to sowing or replanting; - mature compost (12/18/24 months): this is compost which has undergone a prolonged maturing phase. It is the least effective in terms of fertilization but its physical characteristics and perfect stability make it suitable for using in direct contact with roots and seeds, even in delicate periods (germination, rooting, etc). It is especially indicated as soil for potted plants and is suitable for resowing lawns and improving the growth of lush grass.
See also: How to make organic fertilizer The advantages of composting Six precious rules |