How does composting work?

Composting is a natural process that turns organic material (things that were once living) into rich soil-like material called compost.

The organic material is broken down by microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, insects and worms and by chemical reactions. The process generates heat as decomposition takes place, and the more heat that's generated, the faster decomposition occurs!

To work properly, composting needs lots of air and moisture. The composting process is known as 'aerobic decomposition', which means decomposition in the presence of air. (If this happens without the presence of air, it is known as anaerobic decompostion. Its this type of rotting that produces bad smells and a slimy, smelly mess rather than good compost.)

There needs to be a good balance of carbon and nitrogen for the material to be composted well. Too much of either one will result in poor compost. Carbon rich material is known as 'brown' stuff. Nitrogen rich material is known as 'green' stuff. Why? because they are often that colour! For example lawn mowings, soft plant clippings and kitchen scraps are high in nitrogen, they are 'green' stuff. Straw, hay, sticks, paper and cardboard are high in carbon, and are 'brown' stuff.

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