Before applying the compost to the beds, it may be appropriate to sift it. This article describes which screening method has proven its worth.
A thermal composter with mature compost
Why compost sift
The purpose of compost screening is to separate mature compost from material that has not yet fully decomposed. Some materials such as coarser pieces of ass, nut shells or egg shells take longer to decompose than, for example, leftover vegetables. So that the already finished compost can still be used, you can use the sieving method. In general, there is nothing wrong with spreading compost soil with small pieces of branch on the beds. However, some plants can be sensitive to fresh compost. In addition, unfinished compost removes nitrogen from the soil because it is needed for decomposition.
This is the most effective way to screen the compost
There are basically three ways to effectively sift the compost: Electronic sifters are the most convenient option. For most hobby gardeners, however, the costs are disproportionate to the labor savings. Pass-through sieves with galvanized wire are often used. In preparation, a large tarpaulin is placed on the ground, the sieve is set up at an angle and the compost is vigorously thrown through with a shovel. Coarse components fall off while the fine humus trickles through the sieve.
The third variant is a self-made sieve. To do this, take a wooden frame and cover it with strong wire mesh (€14.99) or rabbit wire (tack it on).
Both the pass-through sieve and the self-made variant can also be placed on a wheelbarrow for the sake of simplicity. The screened compost is then immediately available in the cart and can easily be taken to the right place. The disadvantage here is that the coarse components remain on the sieve and have to be scraped off with the shovel or shaken off the sieve. Try placing the sieve in the wheelbarrow at an angle. A brick prevents the screen from slipping.