What is the breakdown of organic matter?

Organic matter breakdown is not a single chemical transformation but a complex process. Break down of organic matter involves chemical alteration of organic matter, physical fragmentation and finally release of mineral nutrients.

What is biologically decomposed organic matter?

Decomposition of organic matter is largely a biological process that occurs naturally. As they break down the organic matter, any excess nutrients (N, P and S) are released into the soil in forms that plants can use. This release process is called mineralization.

What is organic matter for gardens?

The organic matter is derived from plants and animals remains such as dead plants, plant waste (leaves), animal manure. One of its advantages is its ability to withhold water and nutrients, therefore enabling your plants to better grow.

What breaks down organic matter into compost?

The most abundant type of chemical decomposer in a compost pile is aerobic bacteria. When they break down organic material, they give off heat. Billions of aerobic bacteria working to decompose the organic matter in a compost pile causes the pile to warm up. As the temperature rises, different organisms thrive.

Can garden soil have too much organic matter?

Although it may seem unlikely, particularly given how often gardeners are told to add organic materials to their gardens, it is possible to have too much organic matter in your soil. But, over time, SOM can build to the point where significantly more nutrients are available in the soil than the plants are able to use.

How often should I turn compost?

By turning more frequently (about every 2-4 weeks), you will produce compost more quickly. Waiting at least two weeks allows the center of the pile to heat up and promotes maximum bacterial activity. The average composter turns the pile every 4-5 weeks.

What does organic matter do to the soil?

Organic matter improves soil structure, moisture retention, drainage, and the microbial life of the soil. An adequate amount of organic matter in the soil can help ensure that nutrients are available to plants on a steady basis and that the soil structure enhances root growth.

What happens to organic matter in the decomposition process?

Since anaerobic destruction of organic matter is a reduction process, the final product, humus, is subject to some aerobic oxidation when put on the soil, that is, it may appear to decompose further after being exposed to air. This oxidation is minor, takes place rapidly, and is of no consequence in the utilization of the material on the soil.

How are organic compounds broken down by living organisms?

Organic compounds break down by the action of living organisms that do not require air in the normal sense. These organisms use nitrogen, phosphorus, and other nutrients to live and to develop cell protoplasm, but they reduce the organic nitrogen to organic acids and ammonia.

Which is better for a garden organic or chemical fertilizer?

Organic fertilizers dole out the nutrients more slowly than chemical fertilizers, so plant roots are less likely to be burned by getting too high a dose. Even if you use processed organic amendments, such as alfalfa meal, bonemeal, and greensand, you’ll still get many of the advantages.