What Does compost Mean
In order to know the meaning of the term compost, it is necessary, first of all, to discover its etymological origin. In this case, we can determine that it derives from the French "compost", which, in turn, comes from the Latin word "compostum".
The concept, according to the Royal Spanish Academy ( RAE ), refers to the humus that is obtained artificially when organic waste decomposes hot.
It should be remembered that humus is the substance that is formed in the surface sector of the soil by the decomposition of plants and animals . Compost can include fruit peels, vegetable scraps, pieces of wood, and dry leaves, among other materials.
The decomposition of organic waste can be carried out by the action of microscopic or macroscopic agents. Bacteria and fungi appear among the first , while in the second group we find ants and worms , among other animals.
The compost, once obtained, is a high quality compost . Thanks to the various microorganisms it contains, it contributes to the synthesis of vitamins, enzymes and other substances, being very useful for the soil to enjoy a biotic balance.
To take advantage of the compost without the proliferation of pathogens, a high temperature is needed . For this reason, at an industrial level, specialized systems are usually built that allow the decomposition of organic waste and the creation of compost without the risk of the presence of pests .
Compost, however, can be obtained from a house. In this case, containers known as composters are used , where the conversion of organic waste into compost takes place. These composters, which must guarantee thermal insulation and allow ventilation, are usually made of plastic, although there are various models according to requirements and needs.
When it comes to preparing and obtaining an adequate homemade compost, we can emphasize that it is necessary to comply with these recommendations or tips:
-It is vital to choose a good composter.
-You have to be very clear about which waste can be used and which cannot.
-Select the type of composting appropriately.
In addition to all the above, we cannot ignore the fact that there are different classifications of compost. However, one of the most common is that which establishes three clearly differentiated varieties:
-Ripe compost, which is characterized by its dark color, because it has a pleasant smell and because it has lumps. To all this we can add that this is the one that has been in the composter for at least five to six months, hence it is perfectly decomposed. It can be used in a large number of crops.
-Fresh compost is the one that is identified because the waste is not completely decomposed. And it is that they have only been in the composter for about two or three months.
-Compost purin is one that is achieved by introducing mature compost in water and then letting it macerate, moving it periodically, around ten days. It is used a lot in spring.