Living Soil - Cultivating Natural Fertility Rich Compost
ABOUT LIVING SOIL
At Carpe Diem Goat farm, we have made a conscious decision to never use chemical fertilisers and practices that do not support the natural ecolology of the land.
Instead, we create our own compost, which we call
"Living Soil" compost. By spreading this compost, we were able to replace all the nutrients on the farm that we had removed. The result has been incredible - the grass grows plentiful, the variety of grass species have multiplied, the weeds grow less, and the soil is drought resistant. Our mission is to encourage others to make the change from chemical fertilizers to "Living Soil".
Caren Mcdonald owner and founder of "Living Soil"
WHY
LIVING SOIL?..
IT REDUCES EROSION
"Compost plays a crucial role in reducing erosion by improving soil structure and stability. When applied to the soil surface as a mulch or incorporated into it, compost helps reduce soil erosion by either shielding the surface from raindrop impact or improving the soil’s internal structure to better absorb and hold water. The organic matter in compost enhances soil aggregation, encouraging the formation of stable soil aggregates that hold soil particles together. This improved soil structure increases water infiltration and reduces surface runoff, aiding in the prevention of soil erosion and the conservation of valuable topsoil. By acting as a natural erosion control measure, compost plays an important role in sustainable land management and maintaining soil health, especially when combined with other erosion control techniques."
GROW HEALTHY FOOD
Good health is dependant on good food. Nutrient dense foods are grown in biologically rich, nutrient-dense soil which is teeming with beneficial microbes. These microbes break down organic matter and unlock nutrients in forms that plants can easily absorb, leading to additional production of stronger, healthier nutrient rich plants. When animals (or people) eat food grown in this living soil, they receive a broader spectrum of essential nutrients and natural compounds that support immunity, digestion, and overall vitality. By improving the biology of your soil, you are growing more food but it is better for you and tastes fantastic
ASSISTS WEED CONTROL
"Compost plays a vital role in weed control by creating a competitive advantage for desired plants. When applied to the soil surface or used as mulch, compost forms a protective layer that inhibits weed germination and establishment. The nutrient-rich environment provided by compost encourages the vigorous growth of desired plants, outcompeting and suppressing weeds. Additionally, the physical barrier created by compost mulch prevents sunlight from reaching weed seeds, further limiting their ability to sprout. This natural and sustainable approach to weed control not only reduces the reliance on synthetic herbicides but also contributes to overall soil health and fertility."
GROW MORE
"Compost serves as a soil conditioner enhancing soil structure by promoting the development of a well-aggregated and crumbly texture. Biologically rich compost is like a superfood for your soil—it’s packed with billions of tiny, helpful microbes that break down organic matter and release nutrients in a form plants can actually use. These microbes also improve soil structure, helping it hold water better and letting roots grow deeper and stronger. With healthier roots and a steady supply of natural nutrients, plants grow faster, stronger, and more abundantly"
IS ECONOMICAL & ECOLOGICAL
"Compost proves to be a cost-saving solution in agriculture by providing a natural and sustainable alternative to conventional fertilizers. Its ability to enhance soil fertility reduces the need for expensive synthetic nutrients. Additionally, compost improves water retention, minimizing irrigation requirements. The suppression of weeds and diseases through compost use decreases the need for costly herbicides and pesticides. Moreover, the creation of compost from on-farm or locally sourced materials contributes to waste reduction, lowering disposal costs. Overall, integrating compost into agricultural practices not only enhances soil health but also represents a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to sustainable farming."
ENCOURAGES WATER RETENTION
"Compost plays a crucial role in enhancing water retention in soil through its ability to improve soil structure. As compost decomposes, it forms humus—a spongy, organic material that acts like a water reservoir. The humic substances in compost help create a crumbly soil structure, increasing its capacity to hold water. This improved soil texture allows for better infiltration and reduces water runoff, preventing soil erosion. By incorporating compost into the soil, we not only provide essential nutrients but also establish a more resilient and water-efficient environment for plants, contributing to sustainable agriculture and water conservation efforts."
HARNESSING THE POWER OF NATURE
On our goat farm, we implement a large-scale composting process to harness the nutrient-rich diversity of goat barn bedding . Through careful monitoring of moisture and aeration levels, we facilitate the decomposition process, fostering the growth of beneficial micro-organisms.
