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Re: Compost Questions...

Hi all!

Bernie, you wrote

>1. Will fallen leaves of all varieties work as compost?

Yup.  It will be slower to decompose with only dead leaves, but here are
some  things you can do to speed up the process if all you have are leaves:

     1) Run your lawn mower over the leaves to chop them up.
     2) Make your pile at least a cubic yard (3feet X 3feet X 3 feet).
     3) Put down 6 inches of leaves, then sprinkle some soil on it, then
        lightly wet it (not soaking wet) then repeat the layers.
     4) Turn it once a week (or whenever you feel like it), moisten it
        during the turning if it is dry.

>2. Will grass cuttings work if mixed with leaves? Ratios? Mixing?

Yes.  Best results will be achieved if grass clippings are still green.
This will add nitrogen to the pile, and will allow it to RheatS up faster
and compost quicker.  I would use about 3 parts leaves to 1 part fress
grass clippings.

>3. Should the compost pile be covered from precipitation or does moisture
    help the process?

Moisture helps, but donUt over soak.  If you get too much rain, consider
covering it, but it would be best not to just throw a tarp over it.  This
might not allow enough air into the pile, and the pile could turn
RanaerobicS.  Technically, there is nothing RwrongS with an anaerobic pile,
but your neighbors might not like you any more... it stinks.

Any vegetable matter may be added in when you turn the pile.  Things like
coffee grounds will be a positive addition (nitrogen).  Stick new veggie
matter and additions in the center.  You may see these items for a few
turnings, but once the decay is further along and earthworms find your
pile, they will disappear more quickly.

Good Luck!

   +------------------------------------------------+
   |                Perry Rosenfeld                 |
   |                                                |
   |              Network Specialist I              |
   |   North East Florida Educational Consortium    |
   |      3841 Reid Street, Palatka, FL 32177       |
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   | EMail me at:                                   |
   |              rosenfp@mail.firn.edu             |
   |              rosenfel_p@popmail.firn.edu       |
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