November 2, 2007
Ode to Compost
The following is an Ode to Compost written by Vicky Grogan who just finished Master Composter training at the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences.
Ode to Compost
Ole Ole-Ole Ole
I'm cooking up compost today
And it's Hot! Hot! Hot!
My carbons high, my nitrogens low
I've got the proper ratio
And it's Hot! Hot! Hot!
Watered til my piles a sponge
Air is moving cuz I turned it some
And it's Hot! Hot! Hot!
First psychophiles are in my bin
Then mesophiles are kickin in
Sterilized at 155 over 3 to 5 days
Thermophilics thrive!
And their Hot! Hot! Hot!
Weeds are frying in the heat
Pathogens we must defeat
Keep it Hot! Hot! Hot!
Chop the yard waste for a faster time
Microos and Macros want to dine
Keep it Hot! Hot! Hot!
5 wheelbarrow loads is a cubic yard
Keeps the Fungi working hard
Perfect size lets air flow through
Now it's really up to you
So here we go
Compost in the veggie space
Reduces lead found in that place
Mulch in the garden–Hot! Hot! Hot!
Dressing on the lawn–Hot! Hot! Hot!
Amend your soil–Hot! Hot! Hot!
A start for seedlings it could be
Mix a potting soil
Or a compost tea
Start it Hot! Hot! Hot!
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:29 AM | Permalink |
November 2, 2007
Chicago Earth Machine Sale
Below you will find details on the sale of Earth Machines through the City of Chicago. I am trying to get the bins donated by the City for your class.
Please be sure to check the Master Composter Blog for updates. This message, along with Vicky's Ode to Compost will be posted on the blog soon. Visit the blog at: http://web.extension.uiuc.edu
Visit your classmate Gloria's Blog when you get a chance:http://pollinators-welcome
Earth Machine Sale information: Residents can pick up a discounted compost bin at the Chicago Center for Green Technology, 445 North Sacramento Blvd. on the following days:
Wednesday, November 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 3, from 9:00 a.m. - noon
Saturday, November 10, from 9:00 a.m. - noon
Bins cost $30 and are payable by cash or money order only, we are unable to accept cash. They are large, but usually fit in the empty back seat of most 4-door cars and in SUVs. If the car is smaller, like a 2-door, it would be wise to bring bungee cord or rope, in case the bin needs to go in the trunk.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 9:43 AM | Permalink |
