Soils and composting

Soils naturally contain massive amounts of carbon. However, since the mid 20th century, about half of this carbon has been lost to the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. By minimising digging, and maximising vegetation cover of the soil, carbon is removed from the air by the plants, and gradually returned to the soil. This process can be accelerated by composting and mulching.

Soils and composting

In recent decades, soils across the UK have undergone serious degradation. This article explains the problem, and why we need to do something about it. 

UK Soils

 

No-dig gardening, in which regular mulching is used to enrich the soil and suppress weeds, is an effective way of returning carbon to the soil. 

No-dig

 

This comprehensive and practical site covers everything you need to know about home composting.

Home composting

 

The RHS provides extensive information on the range, benefits and usage of peat-free composts. 

Peat-free compost