Commercial composting plays an important role in creating a sustainable environment and reducing waste. It’s an effective way of recycling organic material, providing essential nutrients for plants, and improving soil structure in the process. We’ve answered 7 weird questions about composting before, but here are seven more about composting that you might not know the answer to.

Can tumbleweeds be composted?

Yes, tumbleweeds can be composted! Tumbleweeds are essentially dried-up weeds that can contain a variety of organic materials. When added to your compost pile, they will break down over time as the other organic materials decompose. You may want to break them apart into smaller pieces for quicker breakdown, but this step isn’t necessary.

How can I get rid of flies in my compost?

The best way to get rid of flies is to ensure the environment inside your windrows is unappealing to them. This means maintaining the right balance of moisture and aeration, as well as avoiding adding food scraps that have not been chopped or shredded into smaller pieces. Keeping your compost pile covered will also help prevent flies from entering. Additionally, you can use fly traps to attract and catch any flies that may be in the area.

How long does it take pistachio shells to decompose?

Pistachio shells can take up to two years to decompose in a compost pile. To speed up the process, you may want to grind or crush them into smaller pieces before adding them to your compost bin. This will help the shell break down faster and provide more surface area for beneficial bacteria and fungi to work on. Additionally, adding some soil or plant matter to your compost pile can provide beneficial microbes that will help with the breakdown process.

Can you put shrimp shells in the compost bin?

Yes, you can safely add shrimp shells to your compost bin. Like other types of seafood shells, they contain a lot of calcium and magnesium which are beneficial nutrients for plants. However, it is important to break them into smaller pieces before adding them to the bin in order to speed up the decomposition process. Also, be sure not to add too much at once, as an overabundance can create an unpleasant ammonia odor.

Are mollusk shells compostable?

Yes, mollusk shells are compostable. Mollusk shells contain a variety of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, which can be beneficial to plants in the soil. To help them decompose faster, consider breaking them into smaller pieces before adding them to your compost piles. Be sure not to add too much at once though, as an overabundance can create an unpleasant ammonia odor. Additionally, be aware that some mollusk shells may take longer to break down than others due to their size and composition.

Are take-out containers compostable?

Take-out containers can be composted, but it is best to avoid doing so if possible. Most take-out containers are made from polystyrene foam and other plastics that will take a very long time to break down in a compost pile. Additionally, the lids often contain metal or plastic components that cannot be broken down by bacteria.

Can you compost tea bags?

Yes, tea bags can be composted! The paper from the tea bag may take a bit longer to break down compared to other organic materials due to its dense nature, but it will eventually decompose into soil-like material that can be used to fertilize your garden. However, it is important to note that tea bags often contain small amounts of plastic which can take longer to break down. Make sure you are aware of this before composting them. Additionally, avoid adding any artificial flavorings or sweeteners as these will not decompose.

Compost turners for sale from SACRAB Manufacturing

From tumbleweeds to mollusk shells and tea bags, a variety of organic materials can be composted, as long as you properly maintain your windrows. Understanding what can and cannot be composted is crucial, as well as HOW to maintain your piles with compost turners. When you’re ready to buy your next compost turner, consider one of our high-quality machines! We offer New, Used, and Refurbished custom compost turners in a variety of sizes. Our Products come with various options including four-wheel drive, drum styles, engines, and more. Give us a call at (806) 883-7621 or Send Us an Email for more information. When you’re ready to buy your next compost turner, consider one of our high-quality machines! We offer New, Used, and Refurbished custom compost turners in a variety of sizes. Our Products come with various options including four-wheel drive, drum styles, engines, and more. Give us a call at (806) 883-7621 or Send Us an Email for more information.