Question

What is compost?

Answer 1

Compost are nutrient-rich substances used in farming. In several ways, compost itself is important for the soil, as it acts as a natural fertilizer. It adds essential humus or humic acids, and functions as a natural soil pesticide.

Complete solution:
Compost is a mushy mass formed from decomposed plant materials with rotted organic matter which is used in gardening and agriculture. Compost enhances soil composition, provides plants with a wide variety of nutrients, and introduces beneficial soil microbes. Around two per cent nitrogen, 0.5-1 per cent phosphorus and about 2 per cent potassium are usually found in composts. Composts are typically used in large quantities. For home gardens, compost can be prepared on a small scale, usually in a simple stack of garden waste and kitchen or food waste, while compost bins and barrels are also used. For proper decay and decomposition, aeration is necessary, so piles are usually mixed once every few days. A compost pile with the right ratio of carbon to nitrogen is 30:1 in ratio.

Additional Information: Vermicomposting is a composting technique that utilizes earthworms. Worms are stored in specialized containers and fed with kitchen scraps and other plant matter. The worms are withdrawn after several weeks and their rich castings (manure) are gathered for use as a natural fertilizer.

Note: We develop a nutrient-rich substance by adding carbon (browns) and nitrogen (greens) to organic material, combined with plenty of air and water, that can be used as a natural fertilizer for our soil-sustaining growth prospects for plants.