Last updated on October 23rd, 2023 at 09:00 pm
In every compost, life pulsates in secret. To ensure that industrious microorganisms and soil organisms stay lively, it is important that they are stored properly until they are used. This guidebook draws attention to important precautions for the value-preserving storage of compost.
Best option: rainproof storage with soil contact
As the gardening year draws to a close, the question arises of how to properly store remaining compost. With the onset of autumn and winter, permanent moisture in the form of rain and snow poses the biggest problem for the organic natural fertilizer.
Under the influence of too much moisture, rot and mold are pre-programmed. A watertight storage prevents the shortcoming, brings however micro organisms in distress, which make themselves useful in the compost soil. This is how you solve the problem of winter storage of compost with flying colors:
- Clear garden area from weeds, stones and impurities.
- Spread compost on the surface
- Lay water-repellent, frost-resistant compost fleece over the compost soil
- Alternatively, spread black foil over the organic material
- Weigh down side edges with stones or soil
Under the fleece or film cover, your valuable compost soil is protected from constant rain and snow. Microorganisms, earthworms and other helpers in the rotting process retain access to the soil, so they can retreat there in case of severe frost.
Storing compost in containers – tips & tricks.
In small gardens, the storage of compost with soil contact often fails due to lack of space. This is no reason to expose the rich natural fertilizer unprotected to wet and cold winter weather. We have compiled the following ideas of space-saving storage options for you:
- Used tin garbage can with perforated bottom and lockable lid.
- Old rain barrel without bottom
- Close-meshed baskets under a rainproof canopy
- Tear-resistant foil bags with a perforated bottom
Regardless of which bin you use to store compost for the winter. The linchpin of value-preserving storage is that the organic material is not denied access to oxygen.
Tips
Forward-thinking amateur gardeners reserve a frost-free spot in the garage, shed or basement for a few gallons of compost. Thanks to this foresight, ready-to-use compost will be ready in time for the start of the lawn season, acting as a natural fertilizer to kick-start the growth of noble grasses.