When I initially started composting, I realized that the compost would have clumps within it that were very confusing. If you’re currently facing a similar sort of situation then don’t stress, it’s not a problem. We will discuss the reasons why such a situation occurs and the remedies to it. So, keep reading and learn more.
Compost balls in your compost are probably because, the compost is very wet causing it to stick together forming balls. This is a quite common occurrence that I have noticed especially with compost tumblers. This is only because the rotation encourages clumping. This issue can be fixed, all you need to do is throw in some browns. Browns include materials such as paper or shredded leaves because, they have a tendency to absorb excess moisture creating a coarse texture that will prevent clumping.
Is it bad to have compost balls?
Certain things that you must consider, if you have noticed clumping in the compost they are; check out the size and what is inside it. To do so you would have to break it up. Once you’ve broken it up also further examine it for bad odors.
If the clump is smaller than one inch, you have nothing to stress about it. These clumps will disintegrate naturally.
But many times, most composers face issues of clumps that are very large. Composers also describe the size to be as large as a tennis or a golf ball. In such a situation the right thing to do is break each clump up and examines it thoroughly.
Finished compost balls
While trying to disintegrate these balls, if they crumble with much ease and they look like soil that means these clumps are finished compost.
In my experience, I have noticed that compost tumblers tend to create compost balls. Even when the compost is finished, this is because of the motion involved.
Most of the time it is alright to use these compost balls the way they are. However, gardeners that prefer a fire texture in their compost, prefer to break the clumps up.
If you are planning to do the same then, follow a couple of tricks and it would save you the hassle of getting it done by using your hands.
- Spread the compost on the surface and run over it. The best way to do it is to put on your old shoes, I’ve done it once before, and trust me it was very therapeutic and honestly, I wasn’t alone I had my kids run along.
- If you happen to have a wheelbarrow you can empty your compost in it and with the help of a pitchfork, you can now mix it up thoroughly. It actually will break the balls up very quickly and make them very fine. Weed eaters also work very well.
- Use a chip shredder or leaf shredder and throw the compost balls into it. When you do so, you would notice compost dust on the other end. This process will require you to chuck in one ball at a time, this may take a while.
- You could also let the compost cure for some more time because, eventually it will break down on its own
- Use them under the plants and they will release nutrients slowly sustaining your plans longer.
So, guys this is all about compost ball, the reason why they occur, and the solution to them. Do let me know which solution did you pick. All the best!