Home composting is safe says Garden Organic

Dean may boast of an extra strong immune system, in light of recent concerns will he be okay in his role as compost extraordinaire on our Allotment project?

Following recent concerns surrounding the fungus Aspergillus found in compost, Garden Organic, the UK’s leading authority on composting and sustainable waste, is reminding people that home composting is still a safe practice.
 
Garden Organic has over 50 years experience at the forefront of organic growing, of which composting is the cornerstone, and has been running a home composting scheme for over seven years. The charity is urging budding gardeners and committed home composters to continue composting as usual and seek advice if they are worried.
 
Jane Griffiths, Garden Organic’s Sustainable Waste Manager, said: “A compost bin is full of rotting organic matter and so should be treated with due consideration, however this fungus should not cause anybody harm at a home composting level. Very large quantities on an industrial scale will require care when moving as spores can be released but in an average garden it is unlikely to be a problem and is in fact essential to the composting process.”
 spores Garden Organic would advise following the guidelines below.”

Home composting guidelines:

1. Use a compost bin rather than a loose heap for making compost to keep the organic matter and fungus contained.

2. Ensure that the material in the bin is kept moist, as high moisture levels reduce the release of dust particles.

3. Maintain a ‘cool’ composting process by adding only small quantities of material at a time to the bin. This will reduce the need to turn the heap.

4. Ensure that material is aerated by always adding an appropriate mixture of materials (green and browns) to the bin. This will also reduce the need to move the heap.

5. When moving, turning, or disrupting the heap wear a dust mask as a precaution.
 
For more information on home composting, how to get started and how to compost safely, visit www.gardenorganic.org.uk. To enquire about becoming a Mater Composter volunteer and support Garden Organic’s work email enquiry@gardenorganic.org.uk or call 02476 303517.