Organic Matter and Fertilization

Organic matter of all kinds is a must to keep the soil healthy. Lawn clippings, if they are free of dog litter, chemical pesticides or chemical fertilizers, are usually ideal. Fallen tree leaves, alfalfa hay, and fruit and vegetable waste are also ideal, but may need some time to decompose. A trick I use to speed the breakdown of various green organic matter is to put it in a clear plastic bag, seal it tightly and set it in the direct sunlight. A week or two of that is worth 2-4 months in a compost bin. Most of the moisture that the material contains will be at the bottom of the bag, so I’m careful not to break the bag and spill it before I have it over a bed.