LU Workshop Shows Easy Ways to Improve Soil Health

By Blake Jackson

A recent workshop at Lincoln University of Missouri (LU) highlighted how everyday yard waste and kitchen scraps can be transformed into nutrient-rich compost to improve soil health.

Hosted by LU Cooperative Extension’s Native and Specialty Crops Program, the event welcomed gardeners, students, and community members interested in learning practical composting techniques.

Special guest Lea Langdon, representing Wild Ones and the Missouri Native Plant Society, led the session with both instruction and hands-on demonstrations.

“Composting is like helping Mother Nature along,” Langdon said. “We’re mimicking the natural process, helping things break down and decompose.”

During the workshop, participants learned that successful composting requires a balance of “greens” and “browns.” Greens include moist, nitrogen-rich materials such as food scraps, coffee grounds, and fresh plant matter. Browns, on the other hand, are carbon-rich materials like dried leaves, straw, and shredded cardboard.

Langdon recommended a ratio of roughly two parts browns to one part greens to support efficient decomposition. While animal manure can be added, its high nitrogen content means additional browns are often needed to maintain balance.

Attendees also explored how airflow, moisture, and particle size influence the composting process. A properly maintained pile should remain damp but not overly wet and should produce an earthy smell rather than an unpleasant odor. Regular turning of the pile introduces oxygen, which accelerates decomposition.

The workshop continued at LU’s Finca EcoFarm, where participants observed different composting systems, including open piles, bins, and tumblers. They also took part in building a compost pile by layering materials based on the principles discussed.

“I saw the flyer for the compost event at the Farmers Market, and I thought it sounded interesting because I want to get back into gardening,” attendee Sharon Williams said. “This is a great way to learn.”

Supported in part by a National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant, the program emphasized practical education to help individuals improve soil health and gardening success.

Photo Credit: lincoln-university-missouri