Improving small-scale composting of apple waste

Small-scale composting operations of interest to fruit and vegetable processors use tractor-operated compost turners. The mixing and aeration performance of such compost turners were investigated by monitoring the composting of apple residues mixed with sawdust. The results suggested: 1) incorporating liquids into sawdust by passing it through the turner two or three times and using an overdose of the liquid to be absorbed; 2) mixing compounds in stages and in equal proportions to obtain uniform pH, TKN, and dry matter; 3) using a porosity of 35 to 40% and a C:N of 20 to 25 to reach temperatures of 60 degrees C; 4) bullring the residues with a mixture of sawdust and straw to maintain compost structure while increasing the available C thus reducing N losses.