ELM: Composting…The Process of Decomposition:
The breakdown of raw organic materials to a finished compost -- is a gradual complex process, one in which both chemical and biological processes must occur in order for organic matter to change into compost. The decomposition (stabilization) of organic matter by biological action has been taking place in nature since life first appeared on our planet. In recent times, man has attempted to control and directly utilize the process for sanitary recycling and reclamation of organic waste material. Such organic materials as vegetable matter, animal manure and other organic refuse can be converted from otherwise wasted materials to a more stable form for use as a soil amendment by this process. This process is called "composting" and the final product of composting is called "compost".