Our Composting Process

Our Process, Explained

Our primary composting method is Aerated Static Piles (ASP). Every 7 to 10 days we construct a fresh batch of food waste blended with wood chips and other yard waste, pile it in a bay atop perforated pipes, and then turn on blowers. The forced aeration accelerates thermophilic decomposition while supporting stable and consistent temperatures across the pile, which allows the pile to complete the primary composting process in 4 to 6 weeks without the need for turning. The bays are capped with 12″ of wood chips or “overs” screened from a prior batch, which acts as a biofilter to limit odors and discourage flies and birds from feeding on the fresh food waste.

After 4 to 6 weeks, each batch is removed from its primary bay, watered if needed, and then set aside to cool and cure for 2 to 3 months before it’s garden ready. Cure piles are inoculated with compost tea made from “Mother”, the very first pile we built, to jumpstart the growth of fungi, actinomycetes, and other microbiology.

Our Blowers

Our blower system was generously donated by Green Mountain Technology. Photos and tech overview to come.

What’s Cooking