Effect of the yeast
Yeasts occur naturally on the peel of fruit. On the compost, yeasts are an important part of the chemical rotting processes. They are active at temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius and need sugar so that their metabolism can work.
also read
- When the compost stinks - a guide
- Can bread be put on the compost?
- What is the compost temperature?
The yeast metabolism works with or without oxygen. If the compost is not well aerated, yeast will cause fermentation. In a well-ventilated substrate, the yeasts produce not only CO2, but also water and heat, which significantly accelerates the conversion processes. At the same time, the yeasts multiply to a high degree with high oxygen availability, which in turn has a positive effect on the decomposition process.
By actively introducing yeast into the compost, the generation of heat can also be promoted. Temperatures of more than 60 degrees Celsius arise. From this temperature, the hot rotting takes place, in which biological waste products are broken down more quickly. Another benefit of high temperatures in compost is the fact that it kills the seeds of unwanted weeds. Bacteria and mold spores are rendered harmless.
Recipe for a yeast and sugar solution
In the spring you can activate your compost with a solution of sugar and yeast and speed up the processes. The outside temperature must be 20 degrees Celsius for the yeast to be active.
You need:
- 500 to 1,000 grams of sugar
- a watering can of lukewarm water
- a fresh cube of yeast
Natural rotting accelerators
Herbal manure act as a rotting accelerator because they activate life in the soil. The brews contain a high proportion of bacteria and yeasts that break down the plant material. The manure simultaneously moisturizes the compost so that the microorganisms can work better. In addition, the formation of rot is prevented.
In the spring, collect nettles and dandelion leaves and place the plant parts in a bucket full of water. The container should be covered in a warm place for at least two weeks. Herbs such as comfrey, valerian, yarrow or the leaf fronds of fern plants can be added to the liquid manure. They contain minerals and vitamins and provide the compost with bioactive substances.
