Composting 101

Part of our Sanctuary One focus is working in connection with the earth, which we do through our care for trees, land, and gardens. Our Learning Garden provides produce for our livestock and local food banks, connecting the earth to our animal and people aspects of our mission. Our gardening philosophy is permaculture inspired. Along those lines we use the materials around the farm to create a healthy living compost, which in turn, nourishes our Learning Garden. In today’s post we want to focus on composting. 

Composting is a simple and cost effective way to create nutrient rich soil for your home garden, but did you know that there are even more benefits to having a compost pile in your yard? Here are a few reasons:

  • Enriched soil holds more moisture which can help to prevent plant diseases and pests.
  • Creating your own enriched soil reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.
  • Composting kitchen and yard waste helps to reduce methane emissions from landfills and therefore reduces your carbon footprint!

There is no hard fast rule when it comes to turning your compost because the timing depends on the temperature and humidity of your area. It’s best to leave your new compost pile alone while the center of the pile heats up and reaches a temperature of 130°F (54°C). You can purchase a compost thermometer at your local garden and hardware store or watch for steam coming off the top of the pile, indicating that the center of the pile has reached the optimal temperature. This process can take between 4-10 days depending on the weather.

Two to four days after the center of the pile has reached 130°F (54°C) the temperature will naturally begin to drop down to 100° indicating that it’s time to turn your pile for the first time. Turning the pile will bring the temperature in the center back up to  130°F (54°C) and this should be repeated every 4-7 days. When turning your compost it’s important to move materials from the outside of the pile into the center where the beneficial fungi and bacteria can break it down. Read the OSU extension publication on compost for more info on compost variables that affect how quickly it will be ready for use in the garden.

Finished compost can take between 4-8 weeks or even 2-3 months to make depending on how often you turn the pile, how humid it is and if you’re adding new material to the compost. You can tell when you compost is finished when it stops heating up, looks like dark brown soil, there are no distinguishable parts and it has an earthy smell. Curing your compost is important to allow insects, microarthropods, red compost worms, and beneficial fungi to re-enter the pile, resulting in a finer breakdown of materials. To cure your compost, turn your pile for the last time directly on the earth, sprinkle it with water, cover it with a tarp  and let it sit for at least a few weeks or up to 3 months. There is no exact science to hot composting but there are many proven methods to try out and see what works best for your area and your needs. Read the OSU extension publication on compost systems to learn more about commonly practiced methods.

We hope you enjoy the benefits of your own compost creations as much as we do.

No Comments Yet.

Leave a Comment

Follow us on Facebook

Cover for Sanctuary One
13,718
Sanctuary One

Sanctuary One

Sanctuary One's mission is to provide a refuge for animals & people, in harmony with nature.

5 days ago

Sanctuary One
Farewell to Pavarotti-At Sanctuary One, the bonds we form with the animals in our care run deep, creating a profound circle of connection and healing. Among them was Pavarotti, affectionately known as Pav, a spirited Boer goat. Pav arrived at Sanctuary One at the age of 12, a time when many goats like him have already said goodbye. Yet, surrounded by nurturing hands and compassionate hearts, Pav thrived for another eight years, becoming a cherished symbol of resilience and the mutual care that flows between the sanctuary’s animals and its people. He embodied strength with a gentle presence that deeply impacted everyone who knew him. His peaceful demeanor brought a sense of calm and connection to those who cared for him, inspiring perseverance and providing moments of reflection in the serene surroundings of the care farm. For many, his ability to connect with people on such a profound level served as a reminder of the unspoken bond between animals and humans—a bond rooted in trust, healing, and mutual respect. Pavarotti’s legacy, and that of the other animals we've lost, serves as a powerful reminder of the full circle of care that defines Sanctuary One. The animals we nurture also nurture us, teaching compassion, patience, and connection to everyone who walks through our gates—from staff and volunteers to field trip students and visitors. As we continue our important work, we remain committed to honoring this beautiful balance, ensuring that Sanctuary One continues to be a place of healing, growth, and connection for animals, people, and the earth alike. ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

5 days ago

Sanctuary One
🚨 Big news! Help NOMINATE Sanctuary One for the Community Choice Award! 🚨We’re in the running for BEST Non-Profit/Charity Organization in the Services category — and YOU can make it happen! 🙌✨Vote, and show your love! Let’s make some noise and WIN this together! 🎉🐾 rv-times.com/contests/cca/#/gallery?group=512630 ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

5 days ago

Sanctuary One
With summer solstice upon us, it's time to harvest lavender! Our intern Marley was very patient with the bees as we collected them into bundles, even cutting around stalked occupied by the little fuzzy guys. We will be donating a big box of lavender bundles to the Teresa McCormick Center this week, along with some tomato plants for those participants who are interested in growing their own 'maters. With 80 tomato plants freshly planted in our Healing & Learning Garden this past week, there will be plenty for all TMC participants this season! ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

Become a Care Family Monthly Supporter

Verified by MonsterInsights