Making and Using Compost
18 | Unit 1.7
deMOnstratiOn Outine
A. Plan the Pile with Students
- Compost materials assessment
Ask students to assess each compost material in terms of:
a) Carbon-to-nitrogen ratio
b) Moisture content
c) Particle size
d) Aeration
- Pile location, size, shape
Discuss considerations for:
a) Location
b) Size
c) Shape of pile
- Considerations for layering
Plan how the pile will be built by discussing:
a) Thickness of layers (as per material)
b) Order of layers
c) Amount of water to add to which layers (with more added in top layers than bottom)
B. Demonstrate Pile Building
- Demonstrate proper tool techniques for safety and efficiency
a) Discuss which tools are used and why
b) Demonstrate proper use of each tool
- Pile base
a) Mark area for base size and discuss size parameters
b) Demonstrate and discuss loosening soil within area
c) Make first layer with manure or greens
- Demonstrate layering (ask for 2–3 students to help)
Map out layering sequence and for each layer:
a) Review considerations for each material to make appropriate thickness
b) Show how to judge layer thickness, uniformity
c) Demonstrate how to “scratch” top layer slightly into layer below
d) Show how to keep pile square (mind corners and edges)
e) Demonstrate how to add water as needed
- Review layers and sequencing as pile progresses
a) Ask students to build a several-layer sequence and explain their process
b) Are there new considerations as pile progresses or as materials available change?
c) Assess pile shape and size
- Demonstrate finishing a pile
a) 5 feet high = maximum
b) Finish with a carbon layer (e.g., straw cap)
c) Show use of tarp or compost cloth
d) Show how to label pile with date, materials used, other information
Instructor’s Demonstration 1 Outline