Why is there an ash-colored layer in the pile of compost delivered a few days ago? Is it burnt?
Actinomycetes (ac-tin-o-my-seet-ays) are a natural bacteria that form long gray fungi-like threads, resembling spider webs or ash, that stretch through compost. These bacteria are primary composters of tough plant materials like bark and woody stems. They are present at every stage of the composting process, and are most numerous on the persistent woody materials left in mature compost. They produce natural anti-biotics that help fight plant diseases. Once the compost is spread and mixed into the soil, the actinomycetes will no longer be visible because they cannot develop dense colonies in the soil Actinomycetes need water, oxygen, and food to be active. When compost is picked up from Cedar Grove for delivery, material from the middle of the pile is aerated and microbial life is stimulated. If you dig into the pile a few days after delivery, you will see a gray layer beneath the surface and some steam. This is the actinomycetes hard at work, using the fresh air and to continue decompo
