Module 5: Compost Utilization and Marketing

This final module of the "Composting and Compost Use" course teaches students about the considerations and requirements for using compost, as well as factors which are important in the marketing of compost. There are four main reasons for using compost in plant production systems: for soil improvement, for fertilizer, to add humus, and as a horticultural growing medium or mulch. In Units 1 and 2, students learn about the agronomic considerations for using compost, and how to use compost in the production of field-grown and horticultural crops. Unit 3 focuses on the best uses for compost in organic production. Unit 4 provides students with an introduction to compost markets, and some of the requirements and regulations which are important in the marketing of compost.

In the module assignment, "Documenting and analysing the composting process", students prepare a graph of the temperature of their pile over time, and then evaluate their temperature profile with respect to the efficiency of the composting process and stability of the final product.