Why is compost made using Advanced Composting System (ACS) methods superior to that produced by other methods?
ACS compost excels for several reasons:
- It is a controlled process from beginning to end; organic matter can decompose in either a beneficial or detrimental manner; the ACS controls the process to direct the results toward benefit.
- Countless proven beneficial microorganisms are introduced evenly into the windrow to aid both the breakdown and build-up phases of the process.
- Because it is an aerobic process which creates an optimal environment for aerobic microbes to flourish.
- Daily testing insures that optimal ranges for moisture, temperature, and oxygen/carbon dioxide are maintained throughout the process.
- Use of “Moisture Guard” fabric cover makes it possible to develop quality compost even in poor weather conditions.
- ACS compost meets composting’s biggest challenges: consistency and predictability.
- Compost quality is measured not merely by government standards of what’s not in it, but what benefit it will have to the soil and plant.
Does ACS compost reduce insect pressure on plants?
Yes. Insects look for subclinically ill plants. Healthy plants, due to their higher sugar and nutrient content (revealed through a Brix Test), are not appealing to them, so they move on. Bugs land on a plant, test it to see if it will provide the food it needs, and then either stay and devour or move on. A healthy plant in a healthy soil develops antibodies and chemicals which shun the critters. A healthy plant’s make-up causes bugs to become ill and leave. As a consequence of changing the genetic structure of some plants, scientists have made them insect-prone.
Healthy plants will typically have a Brix reading of 13-14, while plants appealing to insects will have a reading in the 5-6 range.
What are the benefits of ACS compost to the soil?
There are many. As a simple reminder, we like to use the acronym “DIP ‘N’ CHEW”
Disease suppression — ACS compost has a healing effect on plants and a cleansing action on soils.
Increases plant yield
Porosity increased in the soil-has more air voids than typical soils.
Nutrient retention — magnetic charge from high CEC holds nutrients longer.
Compaction reduction — it makes soil spongy and enables it to spring back.
Helps reduce dependence on chemicals — promotes healthier plants.
Erosion reduced-disperses the force of raindrops.
Water retention increased — like a sponge holding water.
Beyond these, high quality compost:
- Increases soil fertility and soil digestion
- Increases microbial activity and organic matter content of soil
- Provides high humus levels
- Suppresses weed growth
- Alters soil to have a positive effect against insects and pests
- Improves buffering capacity (neutralizes pH in the soil)
- Neutralizes harmful compounds
- Converts and stores excess nutrients in a plant-friendly manner
- Reduces leaching
- Infiltration of water is improved
What role does clay play in ACS compost?
Sub-soil or clay has many beneficial properties for producing high quality compost as well as improving material management. Normally, 10% clay (by volume) in the windrow recipe is ideal. Its benefits include:
- Contributing to odor control
- Aiding in moisture management
- More nutrients are captured and fewer lost to the atmosphere. More nutrients are bonded in active carbon chains, available to the plant.
- Clay is negatively charged. Loose molecules from microbe decomposition of the feedstocks will be drawn to the clay.
- Acting as a pH buffer, thereby increasing microbe activity
- Providing a foundation for the humus crumb
- Less volume shrinkage
