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Is home composting safe?

Posted on Wednesday, 18 June 2008 09:34AM by
It is still considered safe to compost at home according to Garden Organic, despite the recent bad press about the fungus Aspergillus which is ordinarily found in compost anyway.  Garden Organic has been involved in composting for over 50 years and their home composting scheme has been in operation for more than seven years.  They are keen to encourage gardeners and home composters to continue as usual.  They say that Aspergillus is harmless on a small domestic scale and that it is essential for the breaking down of plant matter; however any compost bin containing rotting organic matter should be treated with care as a matter of course.  It is only when large quantities on an industrial scale are being moved that there is a possibility of spores being released that might be harmful.

Garden Organic say that, "Using compost is the best way to improve your soil and dramatically reduces the waste that we send to landfill. To avoid a build up of fungus and spores Garden Organic would advise following the guidelines below." 


-  Use a compost bin rather than a loose heap for making compost to keep the organic matter and fungus contained. 
-  Ensure that the material in the bin is kept moist, as high moisture levels reduce the release of dust particles. 
-  Maintain a 'cool' composting process by adding only small quantities of material at a time to the bin. This will reduce the need to turn the heap. 
-  Ensure that material is aerated by always adding an appropriate mixture of materials (green and browns) to the bin. This will also reduce the need to move the heap.
-  When moving, turning, or disrupting the heap wear a dust mask as a precaution.

For more information on home composting, how to get started and how to compost safely, visit www.gardenorganic.org.uk. To enquire about becoming a Master Composter volunteer and support Garden Organic's work email enquiry@gardenorganic.org.uk or call 02476 303517.

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