Use of compost and manure by gardeners and farmers

• Decomposition, or decay, is the breakdown of dead matter
• Rate of decay depends on:

  • Number of decomposing microorganisms
  • Temperature
  • Water and oxygen availability
• Gardeners and farmers improve soil quality by adding compost or manure

  • Compost: decayed organic matter used as plant fertiliser
  • Manure: animal dung used as fertiliser
• Compost and manure are broken down into minerals by decomposing bacteria, fungi, and other organisms like worms

  • Helps recycle minerals for new plant growth
  • Improves soil quality by increasing aeration and water retention
• Inorganic fertilisers can also be used by farmers to overcome specific mineral deficiencies

  • Does not involve decomposers
  • Nitrogen is a key element recycled by decomposers to produce nitrate ions for plant growth
• Nitrate ions are produced by decomposers breaking down proteins and urea in the soil

  • Plants need nitrogen to make proteins for growth and repair
  • Nutrients and minerals are passed along the food chain as organisms are consumed