A well matured compost needs time for the soil organisms to create the fine crumb structure. But you can also use the compost for floor care beforehand.
Compost decomposition can be divided into three phases
The three development phases
- dismantling phase
- conversion phase
- Build-up and cool-down phase
dismantling phase
Start planting the compost heap in the spring to allow the contents to rot over the summer. The dismantling phase runs in the first one to two weeks. There are high temperatures inside the compost heap, between 60 and 70 degrees Celsius. Rotting processes in this temperature range are referred to as hot rotting. The temperatures are caused by the activity of bacteria and yeasts, which break down carbohydrates and proteins. The high temperatures kill germs and bacteria and ensure that the seeds of weeds are killed.
conversion phase
After the hot rotting, the conversion phase begins, which lasts about four to five weeks. Cap fungi settle in the compost, which convert fats and waxes into brown humic substances. The temperatures in the compost gradually cool down.
Build-up and cool-down phase
In the third and last phase, building and cooling processes take place. Depending on the weather conditions, this phase lasts for several months. The soil fauna, consisting of worms, mites and isopods, break up the organic material and decompose it into compost soil.
Fresh compost and mature compost
After about three to four months you can already use the coarse compost. The compost soil contains non-rotting plant parts such as cuttings from trees or other plant residues that contain cellulose. This fresh compost is used for soil care. You can use it for mulching and apply it as a protective layer on harvested beds. During this time you can rearrange the compost to speed up rotting.
During the summer, the compost continues to mature. Under optimal conditions, mature compost is produced after about four to six months. Because conditions tend to vary, allow 6 to 12 months for crumbly soil with a fresh smell of forest soil to develop. If you prepare the compost in autumn, the rotting processes will be suspended during the cold winter. This compost takes longer to fully mature.
After a year, the cycle starts all over again. The last remnants of the organic substances are broken down. This stale substrate is ideal for growing seedlings and as potting soil.