Yeasts are known from the production of alcohol, but in well-aerated compost the yeast fungi have a positive effect on the decomposition processes. You can activate your compost with a solution you make yourself. Alternatively, a mixture of different herbs is suitable.
A natural compost accelerator can be made from yeast
effect of yeast
Yeasts occur naturally on the skins of fruits. On the compost, yeast fungi are an important part of the chemical decomposition processes. They are active at temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius and need sugar so that their metabolism can work.
Yeast metabolism works with or without oxygen. If the compost is not well aerated, yeast will ferment it. In a well-aerated substrate, the yeasts produce not only CO2 but also water and heat, which significantly accelerates the conversion processes. At the same time, the yeasts multiply to a high degree with high oxygen availability, which in turn has a positive effect on the decomposition process.
The active introduction of yeast into the compost can also promote heat generation. Temperatures of more than 60 degrees Celsius occur. From this temperature, the hot rotting takes place, in which biological waste products are broken down more quickly. Another advantage of high temperatures in the compost is the fact that the seeds of unwanted weeds are killed. Bacteria and mold spores are rendered harmless.
Recipe for a yeast and sugar solution
In spring you can activate your compost with a solution of sugar and yeast and speed up the processes. The outside temperature must be 20 degrees Celsius for the yeasts to be active.
You need:
- 500 to 1,000 grams of sugar
- a watering can with lukewarm water
- a fresh yeast cube
Natural rot accelerators
Herb manure acts as a rot accelerator because it activates life in the soil. The brews contain a high proportion of bacteria and yeast fungi that decompose the plant material. The liquid manure moistens the compost at the same time so that the microorganisms can work better. In addition, the formation of rot is prevented.
In the spring, gather nettles and dandelion leaves and put the plant parts in a bucket full of water. The container should be covered and left in a warm place for at least two weeks. Herbs such as comfrey, valerian, yarrow or fern leaf fronds can be added to the liquid manure. They contain minerals and vitamins and provide the compost with bioactive substances.