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About Greg
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
As a Master Gardener: taken classes in All Phases of Gardening...I Specialize in Lawns... Pererennials... Compost... Organic Gardening.

   

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Questions Answered By Expert  Greg 
In Category  Composting

SubjectDate Asked

red wigglers for outdoor composting?11/17/2009
  Q: I have a 3x3x3 compost bin in my yard. This of course is not a vermicomposting set up, but I am ...
  A: I assume you are a Northern Gardener, where the Temperatures get below freezing for 2-4 months in ...
composting cow manure11/9/2009
  Q: I have collected 3 large bags of cow manure from near a dairy farm. I have a barrel type composter, ...
  A: Yes you could add it straight to the Garden, but since this will be used as a Soil Amendment and ...
Earthworm composting11/8/2009
  Q: I am doing a project on organic composting and I have a few questions, how much organic matter can ...
  A: Well there are so many Variables in these questions, but I will try the best I can. Obviously, the ...
Eggshells and composting11/8/2009
  Q: I just started gardening at the beginning of this year. I'm very excited to see my plants when they ...
  A: There are many Variables in this question like, How much matter are you Composting? this determines ...
composting cow manure11/7/2009
  Q: I have collected 3 large bags of cow manure from near a dairy farm. I have a barrel type composter, ...
  A: Yes you may Compost the Cow manure in your Tumbler. Since you said the pads are rather hard and dry, ...
Eggshells and composting11/4/2009
  Q: I just started gardening at the beginning of this year. I'm very excited to see my plants when they ...
  A: Sorry for the delay, I was having log-in Issues. As matter decomposes, it takes nutrition from the ...
red worms for composting10/27/2009
  Q: I live in New Hampshire and started a compost pile (just chicken fence on a unused area of the back ...
  A: Let me break this down in a Few ways. First of all, PLEASE Mix up your Compost pile well with the ...
Cardboard for compost10/16/2009
  Q: Greg- My pumpkin patch was a weedy mess 2 years ago so this year I put several inches of hay on the ...
  A: I see no problem with this, but it could cause a mess. The cardboard could get all soggy and bogged ...
Composting Questions10/15/2009
  Q: my names Ian and I'm a sixth grader that goes to a magnet school and I'm doing a science project on ...
  A: Question #1 Grass Clippings and Fall Leaves are 2 good things to have in a Compost Pile, it needs ...
manure cropping10/14/2009
  Q: Do you have an opinion about gardening with manure?
  A: You can garden with manure, with a few exceptions. Never use manure from a Meat Eating Animal, only ...
Compost10/14/2009
  Q: Does compost have any safety cautions that need to be addressed
  A: Compost in it self, produces no safety cautions. It's what goes into the Compost that may cause an ...
Worm farm10/11/2009
  Q: Are you able to tell me why all the worms in my wormfarm just suddenly dissappeared? I have had it ...
  A: I guess then we should look at the problem this way. I am just going to throw these possibles out ...
Worm farm10/11/2009
  Q: Are you able to tell me why all the worms in my wormfarm just suddenly dissappeared? I have had it ...
  A: Since I don't know what type of Worm Farm that you have, like a closed container, open Composting ...
mulching10/6/2009
  Q: We cut down a huge spruce tree and the stump is being "ground" out as I type. The wood chips are ...
  A: There are a few Rules about Mulch. Use your Spruce Tree Grindings, but ONLY if the Tree was not ...
composting marigolds10/4/2009
  Q: Greg Novice gardener, off to a good start. Like to turn remaining greens into the soil for the ...
  A: First of all, somehow my answer to your question must have got lost in Cyber Space, I apologize for ...
grass ash and composting10/2/2009
  Q: I am working on a renewable energy project that involves burning yard waste (from a recycling ...
  A: I will concede my lack of Energy knowledge, let see what I can drum up as far as the other things. ...
composting ornamental grasses9/27/2009
  Q: Every spring I cut back my ornamental grasses and stack them to provide small creature habitat ...
  A: Yes, cutting the grasses into as small of pieces as possible, makes an excellent addition to the ...
lawn care9/22/2009
  Q: We have a large lawn in Tucson Az. We also have an unlimited amount of horse manure. I have been ...
  A: Fire"-fanged, a. [Fire + fanged seized.] Injured as by fire; burned; -- said of manure which has ...
lawn care9/21/2009
  Q: We have a large lawn in Tucson Az. We also have an unlimited amount of horse manure. I have been ...
  A: The issue with fresh Horse manure is, it will burn the Lawn if Directly applied to the Lawn. It must ...
Composting and wastewater treatment9/20/2009
  Q: Am a final year student from the University of Mauritius, doing my final year project entitled ...
  A: I assume that the Waste from the Dairy farm is in the form of a "Slurry" meaning both liquids and ...
Composting of cow manure9/17/2009
  Q: Am a final year student from the University of Mauritius. Could you tell me, based on the Carbon to ...
  A: Fresh Cow manure has a Carbon to Nitrogen ratio in the range of 12-20 to 1. The Ideal C/N Ratio of a ...
Composting materials9/16/2009
  Q: We were told not to compost Oak leaves or Pine needles. Why?
  A: Oak Leaves and Pine Needles are High in PH Acid. There are still pro's and cons out there that say ...
Composting Tumblers9/3/2009
  Q: Greg Are you aware of anyone with firsthand experience, or of any Ag service or "Consumer Reports" ...
  A: This is no Trouble at all, there are many differing Opinions out there, and mine is just one. Yes ...
science fair9/3/2009
  Q: I'm a middle school teacher facilitating student preparation for a science research project. One ...
  A: I would consider this to be an Honor. Could you please give me a " head's up " of about 2-3 days in ...
Composting Tumblers9/3/2009
  Q: Greg Are you aware of anyone with firsthand experience, or of any Ag service or "Consumer Reports" ...
  A: Let me start off by saying that I know many people who have Compost Tumblers, and no I do not know ...
composting newspapers8/17/2009
  Q: I have seen your answer to the question whether newspapers can be composted. But are you sure it ...
  A: Since you are asking this question from New Zealand, I would ask if the Local papers if they print ...
compose6/24/2009
  Q: can you put coffee grounds and filters in a compose and if so is there a limit as to how much. 1 ...
  A: Sorry for the Delay in responding to your question. Yes you can put both the grounds and the filter ...
Mushroom Manure6/10/2009
  Q: I was wondering does mushroom manure affect how my other plants will grow in my vegetable garden? I ...
  A: You have touched on a subject that is still open to debate. The Big knock on Mushroom Compost is the ...
useing compost6/6/2009
  Q: Made the mistake of being in a hurry to plant both annuals and perrenials this Spring. (hoped to ...
  A: I also reside in Michigan, so you get a Customized answer. You can Side Dress with Compost at any ...
Anaerobic fermentation6/5/2009
  Q: Well i had been searching, but i hadn't find how much money I have to invest in order to build a ...
  A: This is what I have Victor, I hope it helps. Composting without oxygen results in fermentation. ...
Anaerobic fermentation6/4/2009
  Q: Well i had been searching, but i hadn't find how much money I have to invest in order to build a ...
  A: I am not an expert in this particular category. As far as Pricing for this Bodigestor. All I can ...
Benefit of worm composting vs regular composting6/4/2009
  Q: I've read lots of information about the benefits of composting in general, but I would like to know ...
  A: I think the Term is Vermicomposting, and this is what you are asking. The Castings of worms, yes ...
composting6/1/2009
  Q: Like what goes in. how much green and brown materials do i need when to start and more. thank you
  A: First let me apologize for the delay in answering your question. 25-1 carbon to nitrogen ratio is ...
cotton palm5/21/2009
  Q: I have just had a cooton palm cut down and the stump ground. i want to put a ros garden in where the ...
  A: I live in Michigan, so I am not aware of Cotton Palms needs as far as the soil. I can't tell you if ...
veg garden5/20/2009
  Q: can I use oak wood sawdust to mulsh the veg, and hold in the moisture? would straw produce weeds and ...
  A: Oak Sawdust would be OK to use as a Mulch, but it would be better if it was Chipped or Shredded. The ...
compost5/18/2009
  Q: can I add them to my compost or spread them around plants? They seem very light and I am wondering ...
  A: Since I am a Northern Gardener, Bougainvillea is just an Annual here, unless you bring it in for the ...
Composting5/2/2009
  Q: I have two 'tumbleweed composter's, and I compost by the batch process. One barrel sits while the ...
  A: I have a few ideas about what is going on here. It seems as though the mixture of Carbon and ...
worm farming4/22/2009
  Q: I want to farm worms to use for fishing.Can I use the worms that crawl onto the pavement after a ...
  A: I can't tell you what type of worm it is that crawls over your pavement after a rainy day. But I am ...
How can I get my wood shavings to compost?4/17/2009
  Q: I have two dwarf rabbits that make a LOT of "bunny litter." We use wood shavings as their bedding. ...
  A: The wood shavings will take a little time, but this sould be no big deal to Compost. Since you ...
Compost4/12/2009
  Q: i am a novice vegetable grower and would like to build a 6 foot by 6 foot by 2 foot deep veg ...
  A: Greetings from Michigan in the USA Well let me answer your question in 2 parts. Yes you can grow ...
compost smells4/2/2009
  Q: I just started a compost bin in the middle of last summer. I have read a few things online about ...
  A: Well it seems like you have answered most of your questions already. And, you are right. Can I get ...
composting potting soil3/29/2009
  Q: I have many container plants and I was wondering if I could put worn out potting soil in my ...
  A: Yes, you may add your leftover potting soil to your Compost, or Composter. Do not consider it worn ...
compost additives3/19/2009
  Q: We are composting mostly oak tree leaves and pine needles. What should we add to the pile in ...
  A: Oak Leaves and Pine Needles are high Acidic <Carbon> Compostables. The addition of Lime is not ...
Adding compost to beds2/28/2009
  Q: I know you should add compost to your flower beds, but how do you add it. I have established ...
  A: I too am located in Michigan. Before you plant your Annuals, dig up the Soil around where you are ...
Starting a compost.2/20/2009
  Q: I am interested in starting a small compost but am not sure where to start. Would it be possible to ...
  A: Yes, you could use a container such as this. It will need to be drilled with 1" holes on the sides, ...
OK for Compost?2/18/2009
  Q: Is it a good idea to use the newspaper my dogs urinate on in my compost pile? Obviously the ...
  A: Yes this is ok. The reason you never use a Carnivore for manure in the Compost pile is there is an ...
potting soil2/14/2009
  Q: We want to make potting soil.We can locally source compost made with sawdust,leaves and grass and ...
  A: I am going to ask you to divert this question to someone on ALLExperts who is an indoor plant ...
Pine composting2/8/2009
  Q: On a scale 1-10 where would aged sawdust from pine trees rate. I would like to use it on my ...
  A: I would use this, in it's Uncomposted form, only as a Mulch. As High Carbon products decompose, like ...
Adding Worms to the Garden2/2/2009
  Q: I have a community garden plot...heavy clay soil type. While I have a compost bin at home that I use ...
  A: I really can't say enough good things about worms in the Soil. They do so many good things, that ...
Burned Paper Ash in Compost1/27/2009
  Q: Instead of shredding my personal printed info (bank statements,bills, etc...) I burn them in my fire ...
  A: I am as sure as I can be, that the Statements from the Bank are totally safe. Yes you can add this ...
mushroom compost1/24/2009
  Q: First thank you for your indepth reponse regarding the large quantity mushrooM compost. Would ...
  A: I will answer as much of these question as I can. Chicken manure is a " Hot " manure, and should ...
Compost Turning1/21/2009
  Q: If I were making mushroom compost in large quantities, such as 25 cubic yards, how often should it ...
  A: Mushroom Compost has become the Buzz Word in the composting Field. It has shown to have less ...
compost1/16/2009
  Q: I remember old gardeners digging in horse droppings into soil and compost,,why, and will cow"pats" ...
  A: Yes, and the Key word here is "Digging" because that states that the Droppings have Aged a while. ...
Composting Newspaper1/15/2009
  Q: Our local paper is printed using soy based ink, which I think would be safe for composting. But ...
  A: Your Newspapers, even with the Colored Ink, in a Regular Newspaper is 100% ok to shred and Compost. ...
Composting1/13/2009
  Q: Does all composting require an enclosed bin or can one be set up outside in a wire enclosure?
  A: You very well can set up an outside enclosure. You can have a wire bin if you so choose, or you can ...
composting1/8/2009
  Q: I want to compost grass/tree branches and wood dust.Pls advise what is the best mix if we mix ...
  A: Only in a Composting forum could we debate the better manure out there. Without getting too deep ...
composting1/8/2009
  Q: I want to compost grass/tree branches and wood dust.Pls advise what is the best mix if we mix ...
  A: The Composting of these materials requires the correct balance of carbon <browns> to <nitrogen> ...
Compost dried beans?1/2/2009
  Q: I have ALOT of dried beans that we will not cook. They were used for an inside playground and we ...
  A: I guess they have been inside for quite a while? The Longer they have not Sprouted, the better. If ...
Parakeet's droppings as fertilizer?12/22/2008
  Q: Can I use my parakeet's droppings to fertilize my plants? If so, how do I proceed? Thanks!
  A: Yes you can use this, I assume that its quite a small amount of Droppings. I would Compost it first, ...
composting12/13/2008
  Q: we recently moved into a new house and property. The property came with thes long black plastic ...
  A: Yes I visited the Site of the "Smart Ditch" It is about what I pictured it to be. I can see No ...
composting12/12/2008
  Q: we recently moved into a new house and property. The property came with thes long black plastic ...
  A: I have searched all the places I can think of, but I cannot find anything on "Smart Trenches", so ...
composting12/1/2008
  Q: I am new to composting and purchased a compose tumbler.-- When I can't get to my back yard I throw ...
  A: Patty..Let me first apologize for the delay in answering this question. I get very few requests for ...
composting with kids11/11/2008
  Q: I am looking for a simple way to do some composting at home, mostly to show my kids how it works. Is ...
  A: You can do this rather easy. Get a small "Glass" Aquarium, not a Plastic one, cause it will stain. A ...
duck manure over winter10/31/2008
  Q: We put a thick layer (4-6")of duck manure mixed with sawdust on our garden ready for winter. We ...
  A: Well you haven't done all wrong, and it's not all right either. You are rolling the Dice on if, the ...
composting on a balcony10/22/2008
  Q: I live in canada. We just had our first snow and i had to pull all my plants in to the appartment ...
  A: Separate the Compostable Items, from the Soil if you are going to store this in Sealed Containers. ...
composting Butternut Squash10/20/2008
  Q: I would like to know if I should compost my Butternut Squash. It was healthy 40' by 60' but the ...
  A: I guess my questions are, was there a problem with the plant when it was growing? Did it have a ...
Safe Composting10/14/2008
  Q: I'm wondering if it is OK to put cuttings and fallen fruit of the creeping fig in my compost bin. ...
  A: There are many Plants that are considered "Poisonous" out there, and we really don't give it much ...
composting10/14/2008
  Q: Greg, I am interested in getting your thoughts on an industrial size compost pile. Everything I ...
  A: 99% of my Questions pertain to Back Yard Composters, so consider yourself the Chosen here. Now ...
squash bugs(gray)9/24/2008
  Q: This is like the other question about squash bugs. I have tried marigolds, but need to plant them ...
  A: I'm not quite sure we have ever spoke on this subject before. The Control for Squash Bugs are: ...
End Product9/2/2008
  Q: I'm new to composting, but all the directions I'm reading say to keep adding material to your bin to ...
  A: Excellent Question Maggie You can do 2 Different things here. You can Build a Pile, with an ...
Diseased plants in compost8/20/2008
  Q: What should you do if you have placed deseased plants (eg tomato/potato blight) in the compost bin? ...
  A: As a Rule, you should always not Compost plants that have Issues such as this. You are taking a ...
using bougainvillea in compost8/10/2008
  Q: I recently have pruned a very large bougainvillea in our back yard. I was wondering if its okay to ...
  A: Since I am a Northern Gardener, Bougainvillea is just an Annual here, unless you bring it in for the ...
Rabbit droppings for compost7/29/2008
  Q: I read that rabbit droppings can be put into a compost. What kind of compost should be used?
  A: You should Compost Rabbit droppings before you use them in the garden. Rabbit droppings are high in ...
Composting7/27/2008
  Q: We have a lot of grass clippings, thatch and horse manure. What is the best way to compost this ...
  A: First of all, the Horse manure should be Dried. That means let it decompose for a while on its own, ...
DONKEY & MULE MANURE AS COMPOST7/18/2008
  Q: My husband and I have two adorable donkeys (Noddy - about to become a mum) and Big Ears (about to ...
  A: Yes you can use this as Compost. When it is in the Fresh stage, keep it wet, along with the Straw or ...
termites attracted by woody mulches7/10/2008
  Q: I am a professional composter. I am always asked if our mulches attract roaches and termites. I have ...
  A: I wish I could help you on this one. I know how to Rid the Garden of them, how to prevent them from ...
Maggots6/22/2008
  Q: We recently developed maggots in our compost bin. We have not added any diary, meat, just dried ...
  A: Maggots are the larvae of Flies, as I am sure you know already. Something, other than the Items you ...
Compost tumbler6/10/2008
  Q: I purchased a compost twin compost tumbler and have been trying to make compost with it for quite ...
  A: but all Compost Tumblers work on the same principle. Carbon <brown matter> and Nitrogen <green ...
garden compost.6/7/2008
  Q: I live in San Francisco and have a nice size yard with lots of Ivy and tree leaves. How can I ...
  A: These are Carbon <brown matter> Tree Leaves and Ivy. You need to balance them out with Nitrogen ...
broccili6/4/2008
  Q: are my brocilli supposed to have multiple yellow flowers growing out of the middle? Should I pinch ...
  A: High temperatures at heading time usually causes premature flowering and consequently reduces the ...
Composting - dead wood5/27/2008
  Q: I live in Southeastern Wisconsin. We live in a wooded lot, and have been "collecting" dead ...
  A: Yes, you can use the Wood Chips right after they are Chipped. Before you put the Chips on, use an ...
Composting - dead wood5/25/2008
  Q: I live in Southeastern Wisconsin. We live in a wooded lot, and have been "collecting" dead ...
  A: I am confused a little bit here. Do you wish to Compost the branches or use it as Mulch on top of ...
Using wood chips as fill5/12/2008
  Q: I am seeking to expand the usable area of my backyard. To do so I need to fill in 20 x 80 feet by ...
  A: The wood chips will rot, and yes they will sink. But to leave them on their own, with no soil mixed ...
black walnut leaves5/2/2008
  Q: I am a new Gardner and want to start to compost the materials from my yard. I already have a large ...
  A: Sorry for the delay in getting back with you. Walnut Trees produce a Chemical that is called, ...
Can I move my compost pile?4/19/2008
  Q: I have been working on my compost pile for about a year now. It is just starting to really start ...
  A: No this isn't silly at all. I had an old Italian fellow down the street who moved his SOIL from his ...
MAGGOTS!4/19/2008
  Q: I have maggots in my compost bin. How do you get them out? When the bin is emptied, the maggots ...
  A: If you will look at my last response to your first question, I said that I am Organic gardener, who ...
Maggots...4/18/2008
  Q: I have maggots in my compost bin. How do you get them out? When the bin is emptied, the maggots ...
  A: The Maggots are the Larva of Flying Insects, most commonly, the House Fly. They are attracted to ...
Composting Wood Chips4/17/2008
  Q: I have approximately 15,000 sq. ft of potential lawn area that is currently covered with 6 to 8 ...
  A: 15,000 sq ft 6-8" is a LOT of Wood Chips I will try and answer this question the best I can. ...
Gutter Mulch OK in Compost Pile?4/10/2008
  Q: We cleaned the moss off our roof last weekend and cleared the gutters as well. I dumped the mulchy ...
  A: Not only are you fine with all of this, this is good stuff to add to the Compost, since it has ...
Compost attracted termites4/7/2008
  Q: Spring is here and with that I emptied out my compost into the garden and tilled to mix. To my ...
  A: Since I live in a Northern area, Termites are not a major concern here. We do get Carpenter Ants, ...
Spreading ash3/27/2008
  Q: Hey Greg, I have been burning a few oak trees that I have cut down and wanted to know if it was ...
  A: Yes you can do this, but caution needs to observed. Moderation is the key here, because the ashes ...
Lawn chemicals and garden safety3/13/2008
  Q: I live in a subdivision where each property is 1/4 acre. A few of my neighbors have lawn spraying ...
  A: There is really not much you can do, I mean it's someone else's choice to treat thier lawns this ...
Organic Gardening3/1/2008
  Q: I have a large backyard, and want to build an Organic Garden to raise vegetables. Size of garden ...
  A: I would like you to consider a Raised Bed for your Vegetables. This is easier to control, and add ...
Green Grass2/27/2008
  Q: My wife is asking me to have a very green garden and I do not know how to make it look like that. Do ...
  A: Welcome to the world of frustration. Just Kidding. If you follow these simple Guidelines, you will ...
composting wood chips2/27/2008
  Q: I am considering clearing several acres of land which has lots of brush and small trees so I can ...
  A: I don't know how high your Water Table is in your Area, but my guess is Yes this is Bordering on it. ...
composting wood chips2/26/2008
  Q: I am considering clearing several acres of land which has lots of brush and small trees so I can ...
  A: Quite a task your are undertaking. Yes you are on the right track, Nitrogen will help with the ...
banana stalks2/19/2008
  Q: Do you know if banana stalks can be used in composting? I have read that banana peels are good for ...
  A: Since here in Michigan we don't get Banana Stalks to Compost, I had to do some research on the ...
Compost Viability2/19/2008
  Q: If a compost pile becomes viable at the end of summer and is not used, will it still be viable next ...
  A: Yes the Compost is still Viable. Compost should be covered when it becomes ready, but it will just ...
compost additives?2/7/2008
  Q: I've collected a LOT of leaves and gras clippings to put in my garden spot, to hopefully turn into a ...
  A: The ideal Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio is 25-1. With this in mind, do not become overly concerned with ...
garden worms/composting2/6/2008
  Q: I want to add worms to my garden. I live in El Paso, Texas...a dry desert area. I have added several ...
  A: The Key here is to keep a constant supply of new Compostable Material at the ready. Leaves, Grass ...
sales receipts12/31/2007
  Q: Are shredded sales receipts, ie. from a grocery store in the USA, safe to use for composting if the ...
  A: I always throw a Caution Flag out when Generalizing on these things. If you are talking about the ...
composting12/8/2007
  Q: Can you tell me about collodial composting, how to etc, friend said he had seen an article about it, ...
  A: You have stumped me on this one. All I have for you is Text on the subject, and none of the people I ...
Ferret litter composting12/5/2007
  Q: I have indoor ferrets who only eat commercially prepared dry ferret food and use a newspaper based ...
  A: As a rule of thumb, all animals that are "Predators" or primarily meat eaters, which include Humans, ...
Wood Chips problems11/30/2007
  Q: Location is Central NJ. We are a small R/C model airplane club that fly in a land fill. We were ...
  A: WOW 400x600 and 6-8 ft deep? This is a HUGE area! Since I assume that the Chips were either free ...
Smelly Compost11/27/2007
  Q: Sorry to slightly hijack this gardening forum - but can you tell me the best way to make a smelly ...
  A: I must say that I have NEVER had a question like this. Everyone wants the answer to the exact ...
compost bin11/18/2007
  Q: I have had a compost pile for over 10 years, and it's enclosed with railroad ties. I have read ...
  A: Good Luck John I can't dispute your approach to this, but I just can't approve of that fact that ...
compost bin11/18/2007
  Q: I have had a compost pile for over 10 years, and it's enclosed with railroad ties. I have read ...
  A: Excellent Question The EPA is still haggling over the long term effects of Creosote and long term ...
composting10/15/2007
  Q: What would be the best way to create more topsoil with bovine manure on a very rocky slope of land.
  A: For some reason your question never made it to me, and so I would like to apologize for the delay. ...
Using neighbors grass clippings in my organic compost for the garden10/13/2007
  Q: I have a large compost pile in my yard and put everything in there from garden waste, food waste, ...
  A: Excellent questions My guess is, if a "Service" is treating your neighbors lawn, chances are they ...
algae/garden plants9/15/2007
  Q: when removing algae from our garden fishpond we use this for our garden plants. Is this beneficial ...
  A: There is nothing wrong or adverse about using Algae in the Garden. I would however Compost it first ...
Making a berm w/ Wood chips and horse manure8/28/2007
  Q: I want to make an earthen hill across the front of my yard (approx 20' x 60' x 4' high) and plant ...
  A: I am going to try and answer your Question in a couple of parts. First of all, Horse Manure is a ...
earthworms & leach fields8/5/2007
  Q: I was watching Gardening by the Yard, specifically a segment on earthworms and got curious, in your ...
  A: First of all, I like this show. Paul James is a fantastic host. I see no way that Earthworms could ...
Grass cuttings and composting7/29/2007
  Q: I have a field of some 3 acres. I mow this myself and a you can imagine I get large quantities of ...
  A: 3 Acres of Grass..is a LOT of Grass Clippings. With that in Mind, you will have to pay attention to ...
New to vermicomposting6/5/2007
  Q: i have not seen ur old answers answers database and would be quite sorry if this has been answered ...
  A: The Worms dig through the Waste and consume it. As it passes through their Digestive system they ...
New to vermicomposting5/30/2007
  Q: i have not seen ur old answers answers database and would be quite sorry if this has been answered ...
  A: Greetings from Detroit Michigan Thank you for considering Vermi-Composting. This is a great way to ...
wood ships5/30/2007
  Q: I want to color some wood chips to use for mulch. What can I use that will not harm my flowers and ...
  A: Interesting Question, and one that has never been posed to me before. First of all, and as you have ...
Composting Duck Manure5/27/2007
  Q: We have five Pekin Ducks right now as pets outside. We use straw for their bedding and I'm ...
  A: All Manurers should be Composted before you use them in the Garden. You can burn the roots with any ...
Cedar chips (animal bedding)5/26/2007
  Q: Our son had a pair of indoor bunnies in a cage with a dropping pan that I use cedar chips in to ...
  A: I don't know of the affect the oils in Cedar have on Animals, but I can tell you that Cedar wood is ...
Smelly Grass5/20/2007
  Q: I saw your answer to the question about 'smelly grass' but I LIKE bagging my grass clippings - I ...
  A: Well 1st of all I will not tell you how to do your Lawn and what works best for you. Mulching ...
Compost + flies5/18/2007
  Q: My compost bin contains thousands of little flies which get in the house. Is there anything i can ...
  A: As matter Decomposes, there will be many things that visit the Compost Pile. This is a Natural ...
composter5/6/2007
  Q: I am considering purchasing a Sun Mar autoflow 200 composter for our home use as an alternative to ...
  A: Fencing and 3 sides is the right way to go. 3 4x4's sunk into the ground in the front, same with ...
grass cuttings5/5/2007
  Q: ARE GRASS CUTTINGS BAD FOR YOUR HEALTH IF LEFT IN LARGE PILES BY YOUR HOME AS WE LIVE ON A CARAVAN ...
  A: Like I said before, the only health risk posed is if it turns sour and Putrid. You can tell if this ...
grass cuttings5/5/2007
  Q: ARE GRASS CUTTINGS BAD FOR YOUR HEALTH IF LEFT IN LARGE PILES BY YOUR HOME AS WE LIVE ON A CARAVAN ...
  A: Grass clippings left in piles, unturned and left alone, will turn Putrid and smell. This could be a ...
E.E.4/27/2007
  Q: i was recently given a project on vermicomposting for my X std. boards.can you provide me with some ...
  A: There is really only one book I know of on this. Go to www.WormWomen.com I don't know if you mean ...
composter4/25/2007
  Q: I am considering purchasing a Sun Mar autoflow 200 composter for our home use as an alternative to ...
  A: In my Humble Opinion, all of these so called Gadgets are quite Pricey, and not really needed, unless ...
moldy straw4/16/2007
  Q: I have bales of straw that got wet last summer and now have mold in the middle. is it ok to use this ...
  A: I hope your Dog is better, I had a Golden Retriever with the same issue years ago. I will try and ...
adding worms to garden beds and compost4/2/2007
  Q: I live in a very rocky part of the northeast, where I have a few inches of rich topsoil, followed by ...
  A: Adding worms to your Garden is always a good thing, you did not mention what this area is being used ...
Wood Chips2/16/2007
  Q: We were actually thinking about making wood chips to sell as apple wood smoking chips for people to ...
  A: I'm sorry about not being able to answer the question about how to prepare Wood Chips for "Smoking" ...
How to collect leaves off bark...11/16/2006
  Q: I have lots of ornamental bark on which have fallen lots of leaves from my neighbour's trees. How do ...
  A: There is really no easy way to do this. I have the same situation. If the Leaves are dry, you can ...
tree leafs11/8/2006
  Q: I get a lot of leafs on my lawn. Presently i get rid of them by mulching them with my lawn mower ...
  A: This all Depends on what you want to do. If you just wish to Mulch the leaves back into the grass, ...
Manure11/3/2006
  Q: Greg, In June '06 my neighbor gave me manure (I believe it was from a horse) in a black trash bag. ...
  A: E-Coli and other damaging Diseases of these types are Transmitted through the Feces of Carnivores. ...
Shredding9/23/2006
  Q: I have recently purchased a shredder as I have Privet and Lawsonia hedges. Can I use the shredded ...
  A: Yes you can use them. Remember this though, as the matter decomposes, it needs Nitrogen to complete ...
composting an old wood pile9/14/2006
  Q: we moved into a house with a 15 year old wood pile. as we sort our logs that are still usable, ...
  A: By offering these choices, I see you have done some homework on this subject. As wood decomposes, ...
composting8/23/2006
  Q: Ok, this is kinda gross. I have started recycling & noticed that most of my trash is from my ...
  A: This should be no problem at all, remember to Pile all of this no higher than 3 feet, and turn over ...
Compost critters7/25/2006
  Q: called "roly-pollies" - There are 1000's of them. My bin worms do not like them and stay clear of ...
  A: "pillbugs" here in Michigan are about the size of a Pea. I don't know how big they can get in ...
compost critters7/25/2006
  Q: of crustaceans in my compost bin? They seem to "eat" the food before my bin worms have a chance. ...
  A: Im interested in knowing what "Type" of Crustaceans these are? Is your Compost Bin located on the ...
ecology6/7/2006
  Q: as light levels increase photosynthetic activity
  A: I assume the question is As light levels increase, so does Photosynthetic activity. And the answer ...
Earthworms6/4/2006
  Q: Which type of substance should I add to an acidic soil to make its pH more suitale for earthworm ...
  A: First of all, I have never had this question posed to me before. First let me say that Earthworms ...
Wood Chip Mulch4/17/2006
  Q: My husband and I have timbered 60 acres and we are thinking of taking the debris that is left and ...
  A: I guess the only thing is what kind of wood is it? Here in Michigan, we have a problem with the ...
Lawn care3/24/2006
  Q: After many years of doing patch work lawn repair I find myself looking for new direction this year. ...
  A: I suspect that the new Loom that was added may have issues. As with your children, if they say they ...
lawn2/23/2006
  Q: I was not aware of renting a hydroseeder. Would I be able to get one from a regular rental shop or ...
  A: Renting a Hydroseeder will require some reasearch on your part. I doub't a place like Home Depot ...
lawn2/21/2006
  Q: We had to have our lawn taken out last year because we had to replaceour leach field. I want to put ...
  A: I live in Michigan, so im not quite sure which type of Cold Season Lawns would do best in your ...
plants/worms2/20/2006
  Q: how do worms affect the growth of plants? can they suck any nourishment from the plants?
  A: Worms, as they work their way through the Soil Structure, loosen the Sub Soil creating pathways for ...
compost12/18/2005
  Q: iv'e read somewhere that if you use lots of shredded wood for composting & or mulching the resulting ...
  A: Yes this is True As Wood Decomposes it needs Nitrogen to complete the proccess. It will take ...
composting11/3/2005
  Q: Horse chesnuts; are they a toxic element to add to the composter? I rake up hundreds from my yard, ...
  A: I have found nothing that states that these could be Harmfull. But as always, I would go to the side ...
composting8/17/2005
  Q: In an active composting bin, what normally happens to the temperature?
  A: What happens is that the Temperature goes up when the Pile is working. The Temperature can reach an ...
organic lawn and vegetable garden care7/18/2005
  Q: are there any homemade remedies for lawn and garden care? I want to have a nice looking weed free ...
  A: For some reason your question never made it to me, and it was defaulted back to the server. Im sorry ...
Urine6/2/2005
  Q: Can urine be used in composting? Answer - Hello Bill I need a Reply from you..Is it Human Urine ...
  A: Recent studies have concluded that Human Urine contains enough Nitrogen to be an effective compost ...
composting6/2/2005
  Q: I have just moved into a house with raised box beds filled with soil and ready to be planted. I'm ...
  A: Yes you can use it soley for Composting. Soil is an activator and should be used in between layers ...
Using Guinea Pig waste5/8/2005
  Q: Can we add guinea pig wastes to our compost pile for our vegetable garden? We use a mix of pine and ...
  A: Animals are classified into 2 different groups as far as Gardening and Composting go. Carnivores, ...
composting4/15/2005
  Q: I am very much into organic gardening and using garlic spray (quite successfully) for pest control. ...
  A: You can safely Compost Newspapers. To-days Newspapers are printed on a Soy Based Ink and are totaly ...
Composting4/15/2005
  Q: I get an accumulation of grass clippings thru the lawn care season. I have made a bin out of steel ...
  A: Yes you have answered you own questions rather well. First, yes you may add Straw as a Carbon ...
soil preparation4/11/2005
  Q: I have a small suburban house in Northern Virginia and the best place to put a vegetable/flower ...
  A: Yes the Gravel should pose no problem at all. You have answered you own question very well. 6" down ...
compost pile2/13/2005
  Q: I started to compost three years ago. I already have good compost for my garden. My question. ...
  A: Sunlight creates Heat, if you were to do an experiment with 2 Compost Piles, and one got 8 hours of ...
Composting1/23/2005
  Q: Greg, Composting dog manure poses risks due to the worms and parasites found in it. However, there ...
  A: That is an interesting point about the Dog Manure. The problem with Dog Manure, as with all ...
Composting Grass1/4/2005
  Q: I want to compost both grass and dog manure. Can this be done?
  A: Dog Manure, as with any meat eating creature, should be avoided in any Composting. Use only Manure ...
Leaf accumulation11/21/2004
  Q: For many years I have been blowing leaves (in the fall) into a wooded section of my property where ...
  A: L. Oh yes there is. First of all. Leaves are mostly Carbon, you need a Nitrogen to make the Ratio ...
Wood Chips11/19/2004
  Q: Can you use fresh wood chips around your bedding plants, or do they need to be composted first? I ...
  A: I assume the purpose of the Chips is to help with moisture retention, and regulation of soil ...
rake with rubber tines10/26/2004
  Q: Back in the 60's my father used a rake with rubber tines to screen his organic compost. To this ...
  A: Im sorry, I have never heard of this. I will give you a source of all of my Organic Products and ...
composting9/12/2004
  Q: What method of composting is the fastest? 1. In an open containment? This method does not seems ...
  A: This is an Excellent question In order to answer this on an equal basis, you would have to have the ...
compost9/8/2004
  Q: how do i start my compost decomposing if i do not have enzymes from the store?
  A: The Compost Starters that you see for sale in Stores, are really not Neeeded, and in my Opinon, a ...
solution/mixture for tomatoes please?7/29/2004
  Q: ),...I am doing some experimenting, and wondered if you could please tell me what the ...
  A: Im not quite sure what it is you ask. Would you want the answer for some type of Fertilizer ...
My Lawn6/29/2004
  Q: I no longer want to use chemicals on by lawn. Tell ne about organic products for lawn care, getting ...
  A: A wise move on your part, to go Organic for the Lawn. Organic Fertilizers are much better for the ...
Composting6/2/2004
  Q: How can i make compost by myself?
  A: Well all you really need is some greens, some browns, and some Patience. Vegtable Scraps are a good ...
Compost5/31/2004
  Q: I have a tumble composter. Besides vegetable matter, what should I add to the tumbler. A friend told ...
  A: You got me on that one. I have never heard of a "Dinamic Lifter". The Key to a Compost Pile, be it ...
Bad soil in Missouri5/12/2004
  Q: We just bought a house in Blackwell Mo.and the contractor put fill dirt in that is soooo sticky and ...
  A: First I must ask you. Do you have access to a Landscape Contractor or a place where you can buy ...
Condo Composter4/18/2004
  Q: (My apologies if you receive 2 copies of this essage). Thank you in advance for taking my ...
  A: The Key to Composting, no matter what the means you use, is the proper Ratio of Carbon <brown ...
composting time3/23/2004
  Q: I have 2 composting piles (each around 3 cubic feet-open on front and top with chicken wire on the 3 ...
  A: Seems to me you are doing it right. Many factors are involved in a speedy Decompositon. Heat is a ...
speeding up composting process3/3/2004
  Q: We started a compost last summer in our backyard, 2 families are using it and we are concerned that ...
  A: It seems as thought the Spark to Light the Decompostion process has not been lit. You can <buy> ...
Compost Heap and concrete2/14/2004
  Q: Can a compost heap be placed on concrete if drainage holes are drilled through the concrete? The ...
  A: How about this as an alternative for Drilling Holes into the Concrete. Place a Wooden Pallet(s) Over ...
Composting11/18/2003
  Q: I plan to biuld a barrel type composter using a 55 gallon drum that will lay horizontally on a stand ...
  A: Im Glad to see that you are Building one of these instead of just Buying one, they can be quite ...
How to make a compost pile10/20/2003
  Q: I would like some easy step by step instructions on how to make a compost pile. Can I start one now ...
  A: Well its a small World with the Internet, I live in Michigan also. Yes you can start a Compost Pile ...
Mulch9/1/2003
  Q: I do wood working as a hobby. When I use a planer I get a lot of tiny wood chips. Mostly I use oak ...
  A: Yes you may use Wood Chips as a Mulch. Try the best that you can to use Chips that are at least 1/2" ...
Composting and snails/slugs7/1/2003
  Q: I know that earthworms are beneficial to a healthy compost bin, but I wonder whether it is ...
  A: Sorry for the Delay in Response Time, I was having some Computer Problems. Snails/Slugs and any ...
Fertilizer6/13/2003
  Q: Can rabbit droppings (feces) be used in the garden. Do I have to let them age or can I just them ...
  A: Rabbit droppings are High in Nitrogen, most cases even Higher than Poultry. As a rule, no Manure ...
Growing vegetables organically5/14/2003
  Q: Greg, I am a novice gardner and I would like to grow organic vegetables using compost. What is the ...
  A: The Best way to Grow Organic Vegetables is to do a Raised Bed. You have more control of the Soil ...
grass cuttings4/28/2003
  Q: Have nice green grass cuttings each week. Would like to keep them for compost or bed fill but the ...
  A: The Odor you smell is Ammonia, it is caused by a lack of Oxygen and Carbon within the Pile of Grass. ...
Chipping and Shredding3/30/2003
  Q: We live part of the year here in Florida in a small gated community with mostly retirees. We have at ...
  A: Im not going to tell you that having a Compost Pile will NOT draw Termites. When you consider the ...
organic gardening and insects12/26/2002
  Q: first of all let me start by saying i am a novice vegtable gardener and this last summer was my ...
  A: You are more Professional than you think. Most Gardeners don't have a clue as to what is eating ...
Gardening10/18/2002
  Q: How long does it take grass cutting etc to decompose. At what point is is useable as a fertiliser ...
  A: The Speed of Decomposition of Grass Clippings depends on a few factors. Heat and Moisture are the 2 ...
compost8/12/2002
  Q: Can ivy leaves be used in a compost bin?
  A: The Ivy Family of plants covers a wide area. I must say this just to cover all Bases, this isn't ...
liquid fertilizer5/27/2002
  Q: .can you please advise me on this? thank you in advance ... Pearl Moore
  A: ..If you were to take an old Nylon and fill it with (Sifted) Compost and tie the top up, lets it sit ...

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