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Phoenix, AZ

If you all have read my diary, I come to the conclusion that my compost was not mature when I put it in the soil. It was supposed to be, but hey such is life. I understand that compost needs to be essentially inert before it is grown with otherwise it uses up too much nitrogen and oxygen that competes with the plant roots. This is in addition to phytotoxins generated by excessive amounts of biological life.

Has anyone ran into this problem before and if so, what did they do during the process of growing? What do you suggest I do in the final stages of my growing (which will not be great this year)?

Any input is welcome.

Ben

4/30/2005 11:02:47 PM

Phoenix, AZ

A couple of things I wanted to add were the fact that it seems most of the compost was a very aged sawdust and that it never heated up when I had it thus I assumed it was complete. Now I understand that not all composts heat up and therefore should not consider this a reason for it to have been complete.

Also, the addition of nitrogen to the soil in any amount has not been a factor in helping growth. This coincides with the soil test results showing significant nitrogen in the soil.

5/1/2005 12:32:52 AM