:''For the process of producing compost see
composting''

A handful of compost

A double-wide bin with compost at different stages of decomposition
'Compost' is the aerobically decomposed remnants of
organic materials (those with
plant and
animal origins). Compost is used in
gardening and
agriculture as a
soil amendment, and commercially by the landscaping and container nursery industries. It is also used for erosion control, land/stream reclamation, wetland construction, and as landfill cover (see
compost uses). Compost is also used as a seed starting medium generally mixed with a small portion of sand for improved drainage.
Compost ingredients
Given enough time, all
biodegradable material will compost. However, not all compost feedstocks are appropriate for backyard composting. Most backyard systems will not reach high enough temperatures to kill
pathogens or deter
vermin, so pet droppings, non-vegetarian animal
manure, scraps of
meat, and
dairy products are best left to operators of high-rate,
thermophilic composting systems.
British composting standard
The British
Composting Association[1] worked to establish an industry standard for the composts, the
BSI PAS 100 certified by the
British Standards Institute. The specification covers the entire process; from raw materials and production methods, through quality control and lab testing ensuring certified composts are quality assured traceable safe and reliable.
[2]
Compost types and ingredients
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Biodegradable waste
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Coffee grounds
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Compost tea
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Effective Microorganisms
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Green waste
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Humanure
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Humus
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Leaf mold
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Mulch
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Spent mushroom compost
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Worm compost
See also
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Anaerobic digestion
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Composting
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Composting toilet
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List of composting systems
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Mechanical biological treatment
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Soil conditioner
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Waste management
References
1. Composting Association British Composting Association
2. Introduction to PAS 100 Waste Resource Action Programme & Composting Association Document