The Composting Process

Composting is a natural recycling process that converts decaing organic matter to a dark, odorless, stable form of soil that's perfect for lawns and gardens.

At Benson Farm, we take in seafood waste from Maine's working waterfront, animal bedding from local stables and farms like the Maine State Society for the protection of Animals and blend it with our own cow manure.

This mixture is kept between 120° 170° for up to three months. During this "cooking process," microorganisms actively feed on nitrogen and carbon, breaking the organic matter down to a humus material. When this heating process is finished, the compost is stock-piled to cure for four months or longer.

When the compost is ready to be used, it goes through a screening process to remove any oversized objects. The final product is a fine, dark soil with flecks of shell.

The final stage of this recycling process is returning the finished product back to the ground where it will add nutrients and provide a stable, healthy growing environment for plants!