Sheet composting is an ancient technique that has many practical applications today. Also referred to as lasagna composting or sheet mulching, sheet composting is a cold composting method that has been used by people around the world for generations. It is an excellent way to convert grass to vegetable beds, create new or enlarge perennial borders, improve soil and soil structure, and recycle organic material at home. As with all compost, sheet composting needs carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and water in proper proportions to break down the organic materials into a good growing medium.
To build any good compost you need to plan ahead. Sheet composting is best started several months before you want to use the planting area. Fall is an excellent time to sheet compost as the material breaks down slowly over the winter and is ready for planting in the spring. But a bed may be started any time materials are available. The basic technique involves placing alternate layers of carbon materials and nitrogen materials directly onto the soil. (Note: Layers should be fairly equal to allow for even decomposition. One inch is recommended although deeper layers can be used.) |
Sheet composting is a slow process. There is little or no heat reaction from the microorganisms to speed the process along. A sheet compost bed may take 6-months or longer to decompose sufficiently to allow for planting. A bed is “finished” and ready for planting when the layers have decomposed to the point that the original materials are no longer recognizable and it looks and smells like fresh earth. |
GRASSES THAT NEED TO BE REMOVED:
Goose Grass:
Crab Grass:
Japanese Stiltgrass:
Quackgrass:
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