As we work towards being a zero-waste organization, composting is a large and important part of our operation at Shemesh Farms. Our technique of “backyard hot composting” entails the weekly gathering of about 100 pounds of food scraps from our community and the trimmings from our harvested herbs and flowers as the vital nitrogen source. Our carbon source primarily comes from the leaves and mulch of local trees. Together, we layer our compost pile “lasagna style” with a ratio of about 60 percent carbon to 40 percent to nitrogen. While the compost is being layered, it is also being watered. The layering and watering process creates a system teeming with microbes, worms and other insects as well as tremendous heat.  The combination of heat, insects and microbes breaks down the food waste and carbon matter and turns the pile into nutrient-rich compost.  After about six weeks, the compost pile will rest until it is fully broken down and cooled. We sift the compost pile for any materials that aren’t fully decomposed and the final product is a light, fluffy, nutrient-dense soil amendment.

Once the six week process has been completed, we add the finished compost to all of our plants growing in the raised beds and in-ground.  Additionally, anyone who contributes to the food scraps, is welcome to take home compost for themselves. 

Composting is important for us at Shemesh Farms not only because of the benefits it provides to our herbs and flowers, but also because the act of composting itself heals the Earth. If the food scraps (nitrogen source) weren’t composted, they would likely go in the landfill.  Once in the landfill, where there is no carbon, air or water, the food breaks down and turns into methane. The methane gas rises into the atmosphere and becomes a greenhouse gas which has been proven to contribute to climate change.