Composting reduces manure volume, cuts down on weed seeds, and kills pathogens. What happens within that compost pile also breathes life into soil. During a Michigan State University Extension “In the Weeds” podcast episode, Eliza Hensel talked about the benefits compost can bring to crop growers.
“Compost is a really good soil amendment,” said Hensel, a compost systems educator for Michigan State University Extension. The addition of organic materials via compost cascades into other effects that reduce soil erosion, improve water absorption, and more.
Hensel noted that compost slowly releases organic matter and nutrients over time. “One application of compost may go a lot longer than one application of synthetic fertilizer,” she explained.
Compost is full of microbes, and Hensel said, “Those microbes are the magic of composting.” The heat generated comes from microbial action in the pile. Once composting is complete, its addition to soil boosts the population of beneficial microbes that can help overpower harmful pathogens. Hensel likened compost to probiotics humans use to improve gut health.
For the best outcome, Hensel advised taking a soil test. There are many different blends of compost and compost products that fit different situations.
Also take time to test the compost before use. Hensel shared that a basic compost analysis will provide details such as pH, bulk density, and the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. Carbon and nitrogen are the building blocks of compost, Hensel said, and a healthy balance between 20-to-1 and 30-to-1 carbon to nitrogen is ideal.
The most important reason to submit a compost test is to make sure the compost is a finished, cured product. “Compost can actually be harmful if it hasn’t had time to cure,” Hensel warned. The analysis will assess maturity to ensure the chemical microbial process is complete and the compost is ready to use.
“It’s not only a tool that enhances productivity and sustainability of farms,” Hensel summarized. “It also builds resilience to get through challenges such as soil degradation, climate change, and market demands. I recommend it to anyone.”
This article appeared in the May 2025 issue of Journal of Nutrient Management on page 9.
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